Mobile Courant

Washington D.C. - U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville, alongside a group of his fellow senators, has called for urgent action to increase U.S. agricultural exports and enhance the competitiveness of American products in foreign markets.

In a letter addressed to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Senator Tuberville and his colleagues expressed deep concern over the decline in U.S. agricultural exports. The letter highlighted the significant decrease of over $17 billion in agricultural exports in the past fiscal year, urging the Biden administration to take immediate steps to reverse this trend.

Senator Tuberville emphasized the importance of proactive measures to prevent competitors from gaining market share, stating, "Can you share with us how the USDA is working with the U.S. Trade Representative to underscore the need for a proactive approach so that our competitors do not continue to gain market share and capture opportunities that would have otherwise been ours?"

In response, Secretary Vilsack acknowledged the challenges in the agricultural trade sector and discussed the complexities of trade agreements and market dynamics. He noted ongoing efforts to boost trade wins, such as expanding access to various products in international markets, to increase U.S. exports.

Additionally, Senator Tuberville raised concerns about the impact of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) on poultry trade and the necessity of maintaining strong trade agreements to safeguard export markets. Secretary Vilsack highlighted the absence of a current HPAI vaccine and the complexities involved in developing one that meets international acceptance standards.

The call for action comes as U.S. agricultural trade faces significant challenges, with a projected record-high trade deficit and a decline in exports. The senators emphasized the critical role of international trade in supporting the U.S. agriculture industry and the livelihoods of millions of American workers.

Senator Tommy Tuberville remains committed to advocating for the interests of Alabama's agricultural sector and pushing for policies that enhance agricultural exports and market competitiveness.