Central Washington is one of the most agriculturally diverse regions of our nation. Whether it is apples, cherries, potatoes, mint, dairy or pears - local farmers and ranchers produce the food that feeds the world. Their hard work creates new jobs and forms the foundation of our entire state's economy. And, our agriculture economy is dependent upon a level playing field and a fair opportunity to participate in the global market.
Since March 2009, however, Mexico imposed 20 percent tariffs on 90 American products, including potatoes, pears, cherries and apricots - costing American farmers millions and putting jobs here at risk. These tariffs are in retaliation for the United States failing to meet international trade obligations.
Mexico imposed new retaliatory tariffs on American agriculture products earlier this month, including a 20 percent tariff on fresh apples. Mexico is Washington's largest apple export market, and it is estimated that this new tariff will cost our growers up to $44 million per year.
With the Washington apple harvest underway, our economy cannot afford to take this hit.
In the last 16 months, I have communicated with virtually every Obama Administration official who should be involved in resolving this dispute with Mexico. Whether it was meeting with Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, calling Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood or writing to United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk and President Obama - I have highlighted the serious impacts on Central Washington and pressed for quick action.
Yet, a year and a half later there is no end in sight, no plan and little public effort by this Administration to protect the number one industry in our state. Instead of making progress - the latest tariffs represent a step backwards that is putting jobs and our economy at additional risk.
Unfortunately, this is part of a pattern. Whether it is bringing back the death tax, imposing costly new mandates, blocking up-or-down votes on fair trade agreements like Colombia that would mean jobs for our state, or failing to protect our farmers from these tariffs - those who control Washington D.C. are ignoring the needs of agriculture and rural America.
President Obama was just recently in Washington state, ostensibly talking about ways to improve the economy. One of the best ways to directly help our state is to get an immediate solution in place that ends these job-killing tariffs. After 16 months of inaction, it's time for this Administration to stand with our farmers.
- Congressman Doc Hastings (R-Pasco) represents Central Washington's Fourth Congressional District.
