Congressman Clay Higgins | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman Clay Higgins | Official U.S. House headshot
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Clay Higgins and Congressman Rick Crawford have recently introduced the Prioritizing Offensive Agriculture Disputes and Enforcement Act. This bill aims to identify trade barriers that affect agriculture exports from the United States and develop strategies to enforce violations of trade agreements.
The initiative is a significant step towards supporting the unique agricultural needs of Louisiana in the Farm Bill. It has garnered support from USA Rice and has received bicameral backing, including a Senate Companion Bill led by Senator Cassidy.
Congressman Higgins highlighted the importance of the legislation, stating, "It is imperative that we ensure an even playing field for American exports and strengthen fair trading relationships with foreign countries." He emphasized the commitment to provide financial, trade, and workforce development to farmers, fishermen, and producers.
Meanwhile, Representative Crawford emphasized the need for coordination and strategy in achieving more wins for agriculture. He specifically mentioned India as a starting point, stating, "This bill is a win for all of U.S. agriculture because what our trading partners and our export competition are doing has an effect on us, so we need to use all of our tools available to resolve the tipping of the scales we’re seeing."
The U.S. rice industry has expressed appreciation for the Congressmen's leadership on this critical issue. Bobby Hanks, CEO of Supreme Rice in Crowley, Louisiana, and chair of the USA Rice International Trade Policy Committee, stated, "A WTO case against India’s rice subsidies is long overdue and long-term policy changes in India would help to make rice farmers from the U.S. and other origins that play by the rules, more competitive on the world market."
The Prioritizing Offensive Agriculture Disputes and Enforcement Act is seen as a vital piece of legislation that will fortify the U.S. agriculture industry and promote fair trade practices. It aims to address trade barriers and enforce trade agreements to ensure a level playing field for American exports. The bill's introduction is a significant step towards supporting the agricultural community and strengthening the United States' position in global trade.
Read the legislation here.
To learn more, click on this link: https://clayhiggins.house.gov/2023/09/28/higgins-crawford-introduce-prioritizing-offensive-agriculture-disputes-and/
Alerts Sign-up