20Sep2011

AFFI Urges Extension of GSP Program & Action on Free Trade Pacts

McLean, VA – American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) President and CEO Kraig R. Naasz issued the following statement today urging the administration and Congress to extend the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program and swiftly approve and implement pending free trade agreements with South Korea, Panama and Colombia.

“AFFI has long supported efforts to revive the expired GSP program. Reauthorization will increase the economic competitiveness of American businesses that rely on GSP tariff exemptions to ensure a ready supply of globally-sourced inputs, while boosting economic growth in developing countries.”

“Furthermore, AFFI urges Congress to approve passage of the free trade agreements with South Korea, Panama and Colombia that will open these rapidly growing markets to U.S. frozen food producers, and provide new economic opportunities for the industry. Once enacted, the free trade agreements will boost U.S. exports and create urgently-needed U.S. jobs.”

The U.S. Senate is today slated to consider H.R. 2832, which would reauthorize the GSP program. The U.S. House of Representatives approved the bill earlier this month.

A summary of the frozen food benefits contained in the South Korea, Panama and Colombia trade agreements is available here.

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The American Frozen Food Institute is the national trade association promoting and representing the interests of all segments of the frozen food industry. AFFI works to foster industry development and growth, and advocates before legislative and regulatory entities on the industry’s behalf. More information can be found at www.affi.org.