Trade Policy

Date: 7/07
Position Number: I-B-1
Expires: 3/08

Background: The export of corn and corn products is vital to the nation’s economy, its balance of payments
and the profitability of corn production. The development and maintenance of fair and open global trade
practices and policies are essential.

U.S. corn farmers support world agricultural production based on comparative economic advantage and
endorse multilateral liberalization of trade as a way to raise the standard of living of all people.

We support a consistent U.S. trade policy so corn and corn products will not be disadvantaged for the
advancement of another sector.

Resolution/Position:

1. Initiate and support programs to build long term global demand for corn and corn products.
2. Support worldwide elimination of export subsidies and barriers to free trade.
3. Develop and provide corn products to meet the demands of modern global consumption.
4. Support normal trade relations for all trading partners.
5. Seek resumption of normal trade relations with Cuba.
6. Support repeal of the Jackson/Vanik Amendment and the Stevenson Amendment.
7. Oppose any form of cargo preference.
8. Support exemption of food, feed, agricultural products, medicine and medical supplies from any and all unilateral sanctions imposed on foreign countries by the United States.
9. Support compensation for producers for any economic loss or the loss of reputation as a reliable supplier if U.S. government policy inhibits exports of corn or value-added products.
10. Encourage the U.S. government to respond appropriately when artificial barriers or unsubstantiated restrictions are imposed on U.S. agricultural products.
11. Support appropriate use of U.S. antidumping laws and strengthen international laws to prevent abuse.
12. Support reauthorization of funding in the 2007 farm bill for P.L.480 Title 1, loans, Title II, the Food for Progress Program and reauthorization of the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program.
13. Support the reauthorization of Trade Promotion Authority.
14. Support continued membership by the U.S. in the World Trade Organization (WTO).
15. Support the authority of WTO to arbitrate trade disputes and implement enforcement actions.
16. Support appropriate economic incentives to accomplish identity preserved grain channeling.
17. Oppose U.S. and foreign trade barriers that negatively impact the price and availability of imported
    inputs.