Trans Pacific Partnership Update

For Immediate Release 

April 11th, 2016

Contact:

Ashley Kohls

Phone: 612-618-6619

Email Ashley Kohls

HUTCHINSON, MN (April 11, 2016) – Today, 225 food and agricultural companies and associations, including the Minnesota State Cattlemen’s Association, sent a letter to members of Congress calling for an expedited vote on TTP, also known as the Trans Pacific Partnership. MSCA President Tim Nolte Says the expedited passage of TPP is a must for U.S. beef produces.

TPP levels the playing field for U.S. beef exports to all TPP countries by eliminating tariffs and phasing down the Japanese tariff on U.S. beef from 38.5% to 9% over 16 years—the greatest market access ever negotiated into Japan.   TPP secures strong science-based standards that address the non-tariff trade barriers that restrict our access to many TPP markets. TPP also gives the United States leverage to address outstanding market access issues with other countries like Taiwan, Indonesia, Philippines who have expressed interest in joining TPP in the future. 

“Japan is the United States largest export market.” said Nolte. “However, due to the bi-lateral trade agreement between Australia and Japan, U.S. beef faces a 10 % tariff disadvantage to Australian beef.  This makes U.S. beef less competitive and has given Australia’s beef producers $100 million of U. S. beef market share.” 

The beef industry could have the largest gains in passing TPP.  This agreement will place U.S. beef on a level playing field with Australia and others for beef exports into the Pacific Rim.  

NCBA President Tracy Brunner says, “We know Japanese consumers want U.S. beef, but just like domestic consumers, they make their buying decision based on price and appearance. Until we level the playing field through TPP, U.S. beef is going to be at an economic disadvantage in Japan. That is why we cannot afford to delay passage of TPP; every day costs our producers real money.”