In a recent development, the Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) has joined forces with 40 organizations to press the Biden Administration to reaffirm its commitment to robust digital trade rules and uphold U.S. economic interests in the digital sphere globally. The call to action comes ahead of crucial hearings featuring the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) in the House Ways and Means Committee and the Senate Finance Committee this week.

The coalition of industry organizations, representing a diverse array of sectors, expressed concerns about the USTR's recent approach towards digital trade, citing a halt in negotiations and a lack of focus on enforcement. These organizations emphasized the significance of digital trade for businesses of all sizes and across various industries while refuting arguments that have led to a shift in digital trade priorities.

CCIA also collaborated with 11 trade organizations to outline the adverse effects of the USTR's decision to reduce references to digital trade barriers in its annual National Trade Estimate report. This move was deemed contradictory to the USTR's statutory obligations, as highlighted in a stakeholder memo and letter addressed to Congress.

Jonathan McHale, CCIA Vice President of Digital Trade, underscored the importance of digital trade rules in bolstering the U.S. economy and promoting fair competition. He stated, "Digital trade rules enhance the entire U.S. economy... almost every industry relies on the promotion of cross-border data flows, protections from data localization mandates, protection from discrimination, and assurances that countries will not unduly demand the disclosure of source code to conduct business with reliability."

McHale further emphasized the need for policymakers to adhere to established bipartisan precedents and align with USTR's Congressional mandate to ensure the enforcement of robust digital trade commitments. This sentiment was echoed in the push for a return to a foundation that has historically garnered bipartisan support and served as a basis for advancing digital trade policies.

The Computer & Communications Industry Association has been a longstanding advocate for digital trade rules aimed at bolstering the global economy for over 50 years. The collective effort of industry organizations and stakeholders underscores the critical importance of upholding and reinforcing digital trade regulations to foster innovation, competitiveness, and economic growth.