WASHINGTON - The U.S. House of Representatives passed a groundbreaking trade agreement with Peru today by a vote of 285 to 132. The US-Peru free trade agreement (FTA) breaks the mold of previous agreements negotiated under President Bush by including, in its text, enforceable standards for labor and the environment as well as greater access to lifesaving medicines. Today’s passage was heralded as a critical development, helping to open markets to US goods while also enhancing diplomatic efforts in Latin America.
“Our great nation cannot afford to have a Democratic or Republican trade policy. Instead, we need an American Trade Policy that reflects our core values as a nation and serves as an extension of our foreign policy," said Chairman Rangel. “The Peru FTA is truly an historic breakthrough because, not only will it open new markets for American goods and services, but for the first time we have included enforceable standards for workers and stronger environmental protections in the text of the agreement. You don’t have to be a trade specialist to know that this bill presents tremendous opportunity for American manufacturers by tearing down existing trade barriers and granting access to Peruvian markets."
“As we move forward with a new American trade policy, we will continue to improve the quality of life for our workers and we can’t do this by party politics, but we can do it by principle and this agreement is strong on principle."
The U.S. Peru FTA will now be considered by the U.S. Senate where it is expected to receive broad support.
