Peters Statement on Trump Administration Opening NAFTA Renegotiation Talks

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement as the Trump Administration and Canadian and Mexican government officials opened talks on renegotiating the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA):

“In the two decades since NAFTA was signed, Michigan workers have seen far too many good-paying manufacturing jobs outsourced to other countries. Foreign nations, including many that pay lower wages or have less stringent worker protections, have taken advantage of U.S. trade policies, and it will take nothing less than a fundamental change in our approach to trade negotiations to reverse this trend. When given a level playing field, American workers will compete and win every time. I urge the Trump Administration to use this opportunity to ensure our trade partners are meeting the same high standards for all workers and not undercutting American workers with unfairly low wages.

“If the Trump Administration is serious about renegotiating NAFTA, they must ensure it includes new, enforceable standards on currency manipulation to prevent this unfair trade practice from continuing in future agreements. Any renegotiated deal must also set strong, enforceable labor standards and protect the rights of all North American workers to collectively bargain. The Administration should also work to secure the acceptance of U.S. automotive safety standards throughout North America to lock in rules that will promote exports of American-made autos to other markets. Finally, the Administration should recognize the importance of our nation’s agricultural industry and ensure that our farmers, ranchers and producers have the critical access to foreign markets that they need to stay competitive.

“As these negotiations continue, I will keep pressing the Trump Administration to work toward trade policies that protect American workers and businesses, increase American exports and boost our competitive edge in the global economy.”