U.S. High-Tech Coalition on Trade Promotion Authority
AeA – Association for Competitive Technology - AdvaMed - Business Software Alliance Computer & Communications Industry Association - Computer Systems Policy Project Computing Technology Industry Association - Electronic Industries Alliance – Information Technology Association of America - Information Technology Industry Council – IPC – National Electrical Manufacturers Association – National Venture Capital association – Semiconductor Industry Association - Semiconductor Equipment & Materials International – Software & Information Industry Association - Telecommunications Industry Association

WASHINGTON, April 5, 2002 -- The U.S. High-Tech Coalition on Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) enthusiastically supports the call made by President Bush in a speech at the U.S. Department of State yesterday for the setting of a specific date to debate and vote on legislation to grant the President so-called Trade Promotion Authority.

Cynthia Johnson, Director of Government Relations with Texas Instruments and Chair of the U.S. High-Tech Coalition on TPA noted that, "The President, Senate Majority Leader and the Chairman of the Finance Committee all agree that TPA should be passed by the Senate in the next six weeks. We are thrilled that the time has finally come to restore US leadership on trade. We call on every business and Association in this vibrant sector to make their voices heard on TPA. Now is the time."

Ms. Johnson pointed to the annual National Trade Estimates (NTE) Report on Foreign Trade Barriers which was sent to the Congress by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative earlier this week, and the large number of trade barriers around the world listed in that report which adversely affect U.S. high-tech export opportunities. "This legislation is so clearly linked to the continued ability of the U.S. high-tech industry to compete globally and generate future employment in the U.S. If we are to have any chance in obtaining the reduction or elimination of many of the barriers we face the President must have TPA."

Ms. Johnson pointed out that the U.S. has not concluded comprehensive trade talks since the early 1990s due to lack of TPA. "In effect, our trade agreements remain suspended in time, while other countries take advantage of the opportunity to forge new agreements. New issues are constantly emerging, particularly in the high-tech area, and while the U.S. sits by, other countries are filling the void by negotiating and implementing newer, timelier, precedent-setting agreements."

The U.S. High-Tech Industry Coalition on Trade Promotion Authority is made up of the nation’s leading technology associations representing all the sectors constituting the U.S. high-tech industry. Together, the associations represent thousands of small, medium, and large technology companies that develop the products and services that are a major contributor to U.S. employment and growth.