Collateral Damage: How Global Disputes are Disrupting Trade in Washington State
SEATTLE, June 12, 2019 – As the Trump administration works to overhaul trade policy with virtually all the United States’ largest trading partners, the ripple effects are being felt around the globe. Washington state is no exception.
A report released today by the Washington Council on International Trade (WCIT) illustrates how widely and deeply the impacts of the trade wars are being felt across the state. Collateral Damage: How Global Disputes Are Disrupting Trade in Washington State, highlights industries in every congressional district that are dependent on robust international trade for their success.
“We should absolutely be working to level the playing field for U.S. goods and services in markets around the world,” said Lori Otto Punke, president of WCIT. “However, the current tariff-first strategy is creating uncertainty and risk for the incredibly diverse industries, businesses, and workers in Washington state who rely on trade.”
The report looks at Washington producers of everything from frozen French fries to ultrasound equipment, cloud computing services, hops, and video games — which are all among the state’s largest exporters. It examines how the largest global markets for Washington goods are faring, and assesses the maritime, rail, and air cargo industries that make Washington a critical hub for global trade.
“WCIT members come from many backgrounds and points of view, but they are united in their desire for reliable, consistent, and well-enforced trade agreements,” said Punke. “WCIT will continue to work with all members of the Washington congressional delegation and the administration to push for timely resolution of the many ongoing trade disputes and future agreements so Washington farmers, workers, and businesses can prepare for the future with confidence.”
Contact:
Jane Harris
Washington Council on International Trade
(206)800-23000-2300 800-2300
info@wcit.org