Southern West Virginia News

Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) took part in a Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee hearing to discuss the United States' trade negotiation priorities. The focus was on expanding fair trade opportunities for U.S. businesses, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

Miller emphasized the need to strengthen trade relations in the Indo-Pacific to counter China's growing economic influence. She stated, "The Indo-Pacific is an essential strategic foothold to combat China’s quest for global economic dominance." Miller highlighted that while economies in this region are rapidly developing, the U.S. has not concluded a single trade agreement with an Indo-Pacific partner in over a decade. In contrast, China has advanced its free trade area negotiations with ASEAN as of October 2024.

During the hearing, Jonathan Root from Harley-Davidson shared his perspective on how limited engagement in the Indo-Pacific affects U.S. companies. Congresswoman Miller noted that American products face significant barriers such as steep tariffs, specifically mentioning Harley Davidson motorcycles. Root responded by acknowledging Asia Pacific's potential and pointed out that competitors benefit from manufacturing within ASEAN markets due to favorable tariff conditions.

Miller also addressed concerns about unfair treatment of U.S. digital companies abroad and sought insights from Christine Bliss of the Coalition of Services Industries (CSI). She asked what provisions should be included in future agreements to protect these companies. Bliss stressed the importance of data flows, prohibiting data localization, and ensuring non-discrimination provisions in trade agreements.

Bliss elaborated on challenges faced by U.S. firms due to discriminatory practices and regulatory actions in countries like South Korea and China: "I think having a strong non-discrimination provision is absolutely essential that we include in our agreements."

The discussions aimed at shaping future U.S. trade policies were focused on ensuring fair competition for American businesses both domestically and internationally.