Posted May 11, 2017

 

In separate announcements, industry lobbying groups the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) and the National Cotton Council (NCC) praised the United States Senate confirmation of Robert Lighthizer as United States Trade Representative (USTR).

 

Lighthizer was confirmed by an 82-14 vote today.

 

“In my estimation, Ambassador Lighthizer is likely the most qualified individual ever to be confirmed to this important post,” said NCTO President and CEO Auggie Tantillo as he noted Lighthizer’s previous service as staff director of the Senate Finance committee and as deputy USTR, as well as his distinguished career legal career specializing in international trade law. “Between Ambassador Lighthizer and U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, President Trump has assembled a first-rate team to handle trade and manufacturing matters.”

 

“The U.S. textile industry is excited to work with Secretary Ross and Ambassador Lighthizer to fashion policy that will lead to more U.S. textile production, investment and jobs,” Tantillo added.

 

Meanwhile, the NCC said it is pleased with the Senate’s confirmation of Lighthizer, calling it an important step for promoting fair trade and export development.

 

“Ambassador Lighthizer has extensive trade policy and trade negotiation experience with a career that includes work on Capitol Hill, at USTR and in private practice focused on trade policy and trade enforcement issues,” NCC Chairman Ronnie Lee said. “The U.S. cotton industry looks forward to working closely with him on short-term trade and export objectives as well as some longer term initiatives that are vitally important to a healthy U.S. cotton industry.”

 

Lee, a Bronwood, Ga., cotton producer, said the NCC will emphasize to Ambassador Lighthizer that strong exports and fair trade are critical components to a viable U.S. cotton industry. Lee noted that three out of every four U.S. cotton bales are exported as cotton fiber, while a large percentage of the cotton processed in this nation ultimately is exported as cotton textile and apparel products.

 

Earlier this year, the NCC joined with more than 100 other agricultural and agribusiness organizations on a letter to Senators urging Lighthizer’s prompt confirmation.

 

Sources: NCTO and NCC