House Passage of Oman Trade Agreement Helps Advance Ag Trade, NCGA Notes (7-21-06)

The House of Representatives took a significant step in continuing the advancement of agriculture trade Thursday by passing the U.S.-Oman Free Trade Agreement (FTA), according to the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). Oman FTA was passed by a vote of 221-205. The Senate passed the measure June 29 but did not file the measure because the House must pass legislation first when revenue measures are included in the legislation. It will now go back to the Senate to complete the process.

“Corn growers are committed to trade agreements that will open markets and contribute to economic growth and development for agriculture producers,” said Bob Bowman, NCGA Joint Trade Policy A-team chairman. “U.S. exports of agricultural products to Oman in 2004 totaled $20 million, including vegetable oils, sugars, sweeteners and beverages. The U.S.-Oman FTA will ensure that producers in this country and in Oman reap the maximum benefit.”

The agreement covers all agricultural products and upon implementing the agreement, Oman will provide immediate duty-free access for current U.S. agricultural exports in 87 percent of agricultural tariff lines.

According to Bowman, this FTA is one of many pending agreements that corn growers are advocating passage. NCGA is supporting FTAs with Peru, Korea, Malaysia, Colombia and Taiwan. “

“Corn growers continue work to develop trade policy that opens markets and removes barriers for our products. We realize the benefits of ensuring new opportunities for our products to reach the global marketplace,” Bowman said.