U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker today released a report highlighting the potential benefits of the recently completed Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) for Florida businesses and communities. The TPP will boost U.S. and local economic growth, support American jobs, expand investment opportunities, and increase Florida exports to some of the world’s fastest growing markets.
“The Trans-Pacific Partnership is a transformational agreement that will benefit businesses and workers across the country,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. “By eliminating more than 18,000 tariffs on ‘Made-in-America’ products sold overseas, the TPP will make it possible for more of our high-quality goods and services to reach some of the world’s fastest-growing markets. In addition, the TPP reflects the highest standards on labor, the environment, and the digital economy ever to be included in a trade agreement, which will ensure that our businesses and workers can compete on a level playing field globally.
“Our negotiators did a great job for the American people, and with these reports, our businesses and workers will understand the significant opportunities for economic growth and job creation that will result from the TPP.” TPP markets are already important to Florida businesses, with more than 21 percent of Florida’s goods exports going to TPP partners in 2014. Total Florida goods exports to TPP markets nearly reached $12.5 billion last year, including $1.1 billion to Japan, $199 million to Malaysia, and $120 million to Vietnam.
Once implemented, TPP will strengthen the hand of Florida companies by lowering the costs of doing business in these markets and ensuring fair treatment for Florida businesses. TPP will eliminate foreign import taxes on all industrial and consumer goods, including Florida’s top exports to new TPP markets: Chemicals, Transportation Equipment, and Health Products.
For more information on the Trans-Pacific Partnership, visit www.trade.gov/fta/tpp.
Source: U.S. Department of Commerce
