The importance of balanced trade

The U.S. Dairy Export Council and the National Milk Producers Federation have created a brochure titled “Balanced Trade, Not Unilateral Disarmament” to educate U.S. policy makers about the needs and goals of the U.S. dairy industry regarding the ongoing World Trade Organization (WTO) negotiations on agriculture. To avoid inequitable trading conditions that would undermine U.S. dairy producers and processors it is vital that WTO member countries agree to eliminate export subsidies and correct the existing inequities in market access and domestic support. This brochure is part of a joint USDEC-NMPF congressional education program to help convey the interests of the U.S. dairy industry in world agricultural negotiations.  Read More

Summary of the status of existing and pending Free Trade Agreements 

USDEC's trade policy team has put together a list summarizing the status of all U.S. free trade agreements.  Each FTA listed brings the potential of increased exports of U.S. dairy products. Updated May 2008.   Read More

U.S. proposal for WTO agriculture negotiations

Building on Uruguay Round commitments and the July 2004 Framework agreement for agricultural modalities, on Monday October 10, 2005, the United States presented a comprehensive package intended to move the WTO agriculture negotiations forward. U.S. negotiators have made clear that this is not a unilateral offer – it is contingent on bold reforms from all countries participating in the WTO process.

• Summary of U.S. proposal
• USTR press release
• Facts on the Doha Round

Department Overview

Trade policy is a key element of the U.S. Dairy Export Council's integrated market development strategy. Working through the U.S. government both to enforce and improve the rules governing international dairy trade, USDEC trade policy programs pave the way for effective promotion of U.S. dairy products.

Representing a diverse industry membership, the Export Council also works closely with other industry organizations to attain a unified industry position when seeking government action on the industry's behalf.

USDEC's trade policy initiatives exclude activities involving domestic dairy pricing policies. Trade policy activities are funded solely by membership dues, and do not use funds provided through the dairy check-off program or the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Dairy farmers provide significant input to the process through direct representation on the board as well through their co-operative's membership in USDEC.

For more information please contact USDEC at smorris@nmpf.org.