*Administration of Donald J. Trump, 2018 *

**Message to the Congress on Trade Authorities Procedures **

*March 20, 2018 *

*To the Congress of the United States: *

Today, I am requesting that the Congress extend trade authorities procedures for 3 years. As required under section 103(c)(2) of the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015 (Trade Priorities Act), I have attached to this message the report describing the progress that has been made in trade negotiations by my Administration and the reasons why the extension is necessary.

As noted in the 2018 Trade Policy Agenda, my Administration has launched a new era in American trade policy, driven by a determination to use the leverage available to us as the world's largest economy to open foreign markets, and to obtain more efficient global markets and fairer treatment for American workers. One of the major pillars supporting my trade policy is the pursuit of better trade deals.

As you know, my Administration is pursuing the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement—something many have promised but have failed to deliver. In addition, my Administration is exploring potential trade agreement partners, including in Africa and Southeast Asia.

I hope my Administration can continue to work with the Congress to pursue new and better trade deals for America's workers, farmers, ranchers, and businesses. Extension of trade authorities procedures is essential to fulfill that task and to demonstrate to our trading partners that my Administration and the Congress share a common goal when it comes to trade.

DONALD J. TRUMP

The White House,

March 20, 2018.

*Categories:* Communications to Congress : Trade authorities procedures, message*.*

*Subjects:* Commerce, international : Free and fair trade; Commerce, international : North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

*DCPD Number:* DCPD201800177.