Dear Friends:

Last week we heard news that the U.S. is starting to clear the path for Russia to join the WTO. Russia is a state-managed economy. We already have experience with state-managed economies.  China, Korea, Japan and Germany all have their form of state control or influence to gain trade advantages.  We have trade deficits with all of them, as our industries suffer relative decline.

What is the U.S. plan?  What is our government’s strategy? I think their only strategy is more trade agreements. That’s it. No more thought required.

Trade deals should be a part of a larger American economic strategy to become a successful producing and trading nation.  We can’t afford to give away more industry sectors because of dumb deals.

We need to collectively advocate for an American trade and economic strategy that benefits our country.  I’m asking you to sign on to support the 21st Century Trade Agreement Principles.  It is a comprehensive strategy that CPA and others are using to support a pro-American trade strategy.  These Principles cover issues like balanced trade, state-owned commercial enterprises, enforcement and other important trade matters from the point of view of U.S. producers and the American economy.

While over 150 signatories have signed so far, we need many more to make a compelling case to Congress and the Administration. Our federal leaders are still focusing on issues that are meaningless or distracting.  The candidates for election are doing the same.

It is up to us to provide leadership.  From the ground up.

If you are an authorized representative of a company, farm, ranch or organization, please sign-on to the “21st Century Trade Agreement Principles”.  Your organization or company signature gives us more clout before trade officials and Congress to influence future trade deals so America can benefit.

Sincerely,

Michael Stumo, CEO