Agriculture
More on Agriculture
Nebraska farmers are among the most efficient and productive in the world. Our producers have embraced new technologies and techniques to produce an abundance of crops, opening the door to increased trade and helping to feed the world. These advances have not only helped American agriculture thrive, but also play a critical role in meeting global food demands of the present and future.
Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) participated in a House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade hearing on U.S. – India relations. During the hearing, Smith noted agricultural exporters in Nebraska’s Third District experience tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade in India. Smith asked Allen F.
Many Americans, including myself, are often frustrated by the inability of Congress to get important legislation passed. Congress was unable to agree to a new long-term Farm Bill last year. The Senate has not passed a budget in nearly four years. And it seems like Congress and the President are locked in constant showdowns to avoid the latest ceiling, cliff, or shutdown.
This week, an important agreement was announced which will ease some restrictions on beef imports from the U.S. to Japan, the largest beef market in Asia. Japan will now permit the import of U.S. beef and beef products from cattle less than 30 months of age, an increase from the previous limit of 20 months.
Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) made the following statement after it was announced Japan would ease some restrictions on beef imports from the U.S. Today’s agreement will allow for expanded exports of beef and beef products to Japan, the largest beef market in Asia:
The beginning of a new Congress is typically a time of great excitement and an opportunity for lawmakers to refocus their priorities as we look ahead to the next two years. I remain optimistic about what can be accomplished in the 113th Congress, which began on January 3rd, however much of our business from the previous Congress remains unfinished.
Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) sent a letter to Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) requesting the inclusion of farm policy in any year-end legislative package considered by the House of Representatives. Smith’s letter also was signed by Congressman Lee Terry (R-NE).
Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) along with other members of the House Committee on Ways and Means met with Members of the European Parliament Committee on International Trade to directly discuss trade issues, including the possibility of a transatlantic U.S.-European Union (EU) trade agreement.
Reducing the barriers to international trade has been one of the major accomplishments of the 112th Congress. While many are rightfully frustrated by the lack of bipartisanship, expanding access to trade remains an all-too-rare bright spot for cooperation.