Rep. Barry Moore defends Alabama farmers by urging President Biden to hold China accountable

Statement

Rep. Barry Moore (AL-02) signed a letter to President Biden urging him to hold the Chinese Communist Party accountable for neglecting their commitments made during the Trump administration to make the U.S. - China agricultural trade relationship more balanced and reciprocal. More than two years ago, the United States and China signed a two-year Phase One trade deal that required China to make structural reforms to its trade regime and import $73.9 billion of U.S. agricultural products in 2020 and 2021 combined. Today, China has failed to live up to that commitment by $16 billion, limiting market access necessary for American farmers and ranchers to compete fairly.

"President Biden's weakness on the global stage in Afghanistan, Ukraine and beyond has sent the message that other nations can walk all over us, so this administration must take immediate actions to stand up for America and ensure nations like China honor their commitments," said Rep. Barry Moore. "American farmers and ranchers produce the highest quality crops, livestock, poultry, and dairy products in the world, and we cannot continue to allow China to target them without consequences. The ability of U.S. agriculture to participate in a worldwide marketplace is essential to our markets at home and the ability to make a profit, and I am proud to join my colleagues to demand immediate action from the President."

"President Biden either needs to force China to comply with their end of the agreement or punish them for failing to do so. That's how deals work," said Rep. Tracey Mann. "This administration must address the full suite of issues in a comprehensive and holistic manner and hold the Chinese Communist Party accountable for treating America and its farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers like a doormat. My colleagues and I are calling for immediate action."

"America must enforce our agreements," said Rep. August Pfluger. "I am proud to join my colleagues in calling on President Biden to hold China accountable for their Phase One commitments. This administration must take immediate action and stand up for the agricultural producers that feed and clothe our nation. It's time to put the United States first and stand up to our adversaries."

In the letter, the members express their deep concerns with China not holding up their end of the agreement and urge President Biden, U.S. Secretary Thomas J. Vilsack, and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to immediately rectify the situation and stand for U.S. agricultural producers. They state that the U.S. must fully enforce the agreement and receive damages from China for China's failure to perform.

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