NPC Calls for Passage of TPP

The National Potato Council supports TPP and says it should be passed during the final days of the 114^th Congress.  NPC’s John Keeling told the Washington Ag Network whether it passes during lame duck or during the first portion of  2017, it will benefit all American potato growers.

“The TPP, when you think about trade deals, they’re really about a world view for America.  And is America going to be a big economic player with these other countries and be able to enter into commerce with them.  And trade deals help make that possible.”

Keeling said TPP will reduce tariffs, which he said is critical to growing exports of fresh, dehydrated and frozen potato products.  Keeling added he understands concerns by President-elect Trump and others who say that TPP may not be the best fit for the U.S.  He said any trade deal can be improved, but it’s important to have an active role in the international markets.

"Certainly those who understand trade can certainly work within the context of being assured that we’re getting good deals, that we’re enforcing those deals, holding our trading partners feet to the fire.  So, there’s a place to work there, I think.”

According to the International Trade Commission, lower tariffs on exports would allow potato growers and exports to meet the rising demand in the Asia Pacific region.

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