Advisors Named To Key Agricultural Trade Committees

 
WASHINGTON, May 12, 2003 - Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman and U.S. Trade Representative Robert B. Zoellick today announced the private sector appointees to seven agricultural trade advisory committees.

The members appointed to the Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee for Trade (APAC) and six Agricultural Technical Advisory Committees for Trade (ATACs) will serve two-year appointments that coincide with the continuation of the Bush Administration's aggressive push to open foreign markets to U.S. agricultural products.

"The future of U.S. agriculture hinges on our success in the international marketplace," said Veneman. "The members of the committees provide expertise and unique knowledge of the latest trade trends in the food and agricultural sector to assist with the development of effective negotiating objectives."

"American agriculture has provided critical support for our agenda of opening markets and expanding opportunities around the world, because when American farmers can compete fairly, they win. Coordinating with our agriculture community will continue to be important as the tempo of negotiations for global, regional and bilateral trade agreements intensifies," Zoellick said. "We must have the best possible advice and consultation as negotiations for the World Trade Organization's Doha Development Agenda, the Free Trade Area of the Americas and our bilateral free trade area talks with Central America, Morocco and the Southern African Customs Union, Australia proceed."

Congress established these committees in 1974 to ensure a private sector voice in establishing U.S. trade policy and trade negotiation objectives. Members on the APAC and ATACs are important to advancing the Administration's aggressive agenda to liberalize agricultural trade, expanding access for U.S. food and agricultural products in overseas markets, and reducing unfair competition.

Agricultural products face extensive barriers in foreign markets including tariffs and non-tariff measures. U.S. exports of high-value products have increased and are expected to continue to be a significant factor in agricultural trade. Therefore, USDA and USTR have established a new processed foods ATAC.

The APAC provides advice on overall policy objectives regarding agricultural trade issues. The ATACs offer more detailed technical advice and information on specific commodities. The six ATACs are:

• Animals and Animal Products
• Fruits and Vegetables
• Grains, Feed, and Oilseeds
• Processed Foods
• Sweeteners and Sweetener Products
• Cotton, Peanuts, Planting Seeds, and Tobacco

APAC and ATAC members are appointed primarily for their expertise and knowledge of agricultural trade as it relates to policy and commodity-specific products. Lists of members by committee are attached.