Peoria Standard

U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood and Suzan DelBene have expressed concern over the U.S. Trade Representative's decision to withdraw support for important digital trade proposals at the World Trade Organization (WTO). As Co-Chairs of the Digital Trade Caucus, LaHood and DelBene issued a statement criticizing the move and urging the Biden administration to reconsider its approach.

In their statement, LaHood and DelBene emphasized the significance of these digital trade priorities for American interests. They highlighted the importance of promoting policies that protect against the forced transfer of American technology, enable the free flow of information across borders, and defend American industries, small businesses, and workers against discrimination. They argued that the USTR's decision to abandon these priorities goes against the bipartisan U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement and provides leverage for other foreign powers, such as the Chinese Communist Party, to shape the rules of the global digital economy.

The representatives expressed their disappointment in the USTR's unilateral decision, stating that it was made without the consent of Congress. They underscored the potential consequences of this decision, warning that it could have far-reaching implications for American businesses and workers. LaHood and DelBene called on the Biden administration to reconsider its approach and prioritize the digital trade priorities that Congress had previously set.

The USTR's decision has raised concerns among those who advocate for a strong U.S. presence in the global digital economy. It remains to be seen how the Biden administration will respond to these concerns and whether there will be a shift in the U.S.'s approach to digital trade at the WTO.

To learn more, click on this link: https://lahood.house.gov/2023/10/lahood-delbene-statement-on-ustr-decision-to-abandon-digital-trade-leadership-at-the-wto