[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 190 (Tuesday, December 15, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E3006]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   EXTENDING ANDEAN TRADE PREFERENCES

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DAVID DREIER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 15, 2009

  Mr. DREIER. Madam Speaker, I am a strong and long-time supporter of 
the Andean Trade Preferences Act, ATPA, and I support extending this 
vital program. Fostering economic development and the rule of law in 
the Andean region is essential to our national security, foreign policy 
and economic interests. H.R. 4284 extends ATPA benefits for Colombia, 
Peru, and Ecuador until December 31, 2010.
  I believe there are two essential components to making ATPA work as 
effectively as possible. First, there must be continuity, so that 
American businesses and workers can get the greatest benefit. The U.S. 
jobs that are supported by engaging in the Andean region through ATPA 
require a sound investment environment, which in turn demands certainty 
that the program will be maintained. Taking action to extend ATPA for 
an additional year beyond December 31, 2009, is a positive step. 
However, demonstrating a stronger commitment to continuity by extending 
the program for at least 2 years would improve the program's 
effectiveness and provide greater opportunity for job creation here in 
the U.S.
  Second, there must be accountability. While two of the three current 
participant countries--Colombia and Peru--have made enormous strides in 
implementing economic reforms, solidifying the rule of law and engaging 
as strong partners with the U.S., Ecuador has moved backwards in many 
regards. Most troubling has been the failure to strengthen the rule of 
law, as this is the bedrock upon which all economic and political 
reforms are built. While I believe that engagement through trade is the 
best way to encourage progress, we must take steps to ensure that there 
is accountability along the way. Unfortunately, H.R. 4284 removes 
measures currently in place to conduct a special review of Ecuador's 
progress. This action diminishes the incentives for Ecuador to play by 
the rules. It also sends the message to our partners that those who 
take steps backwards will get the same treatment as those who make 
enormous forward progress. This lack of accountability diminishes the 
effectiveness of both the carrot and the stick.
  As we consider long-term proposals for our trade preferences 
programs, including ATPA, I believe that we must ensure there is both 
greater continuity and greater accountability. Continued failure to do 
so will only limit our ability to achieve the national security, 
foreign policy and economic objectives these programs are designed to 
achieve.

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