Peoria Standard

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood, Jimmy Panetta, Carol Miller, Don Beyer, Adrian Smith, and Ami Bera have introduced the U.S. Trade Leadership in the Indo-Pacific Act (USTLIPA) to address China's growing economic influence in the region. The bipartisan legislation aims to reassert America's role in trade in the Indo-Pacific and strengthen partnerships with allies to counter China's aggressive trade policies.

Congressman LaHood emphasized the importance of the USTLIPA, stating, "The United States must not relinquish its lead on trade in the Indo-Pacific as the Chinese Communist Party seeks to exert their influence, both economically and militarily, in the region and around the globe." Congressman Panetta echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for the U.S. to enhance its trade relations in the Indo-Pacific.

Congresswoman Carol Miller raised concerns about the current administration's inaction on trade, emphasizing the critical need for the U.S. to maintain strong trade relationships in the Indo-Pacific. Rep. Adrian Smith echoed these sentiments, noting the risks of losing ground in global markets for American producers.

Rep. Beyer emphasized the economic importance of the Indo-Pacific region for the U.S. economy and stressed the necessity for the U.S. to engage actively in trade discussions in the region. Various industry leaders and organizations, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Retail Federation, and Consumer Brands Association, have expressed their support for the USTLIPA, recognizing its significance in promoting U.S. competitiveness and economic growth.

Ambassador Ted Osius of the US-ASEAN Business Council commended Rep. Miller's leadership in revitalizing U.S. trade policy in Asia and underlined the importance of engaging with Southeast Asian markets to strengthen America's global trade position. The introduction of the U.S. Trade Leadership in the Indo-Pacific Act reflects bipartisan efforts to address the challenges posed by China's economic influence and reaffirm America's commitment to trade leadership in the region.