NAM President praises U.S. export modernization initiatives.

Press Release Summary:



NAM President John Engler said that the authorization of initiatives to modernize the U.S. export control system is a major step toward enhancing national security while strengthening the global competitiveness of manufacturers. Engler has met with top officials at the State, Commerce, and Defense Departments and the National Security Council. In March 2007, the Coalition sent 19 recommendations to the President to make the current system work better for U.S. security and economic interests.



Original Press Release:



President's Decision to Modernize Export Controls Strengthens National Security



Will Help High Tech Manufacturers Innovate and Compete Globally

WASHINGTON, D.C., January 22, 2008 - Today's announcement that President Bush authorized significant new initiatives to modernize the U.S. export control system was praised by National Association of Manufacturers' President John Engler as "a major step toward enhancing our national security while strengthening the global competitiveness of America's manufacturers.

"In order to efficiently share technology with our allies, the Administration is updating a system that had not kept pace with globalization and rapid technological changes," Engler said. "This decision will keep sensitive technologies out of the hands of those seeking to harm us without hampering the ability of high-tech industries to expand exports.

"This has been a top trade priority for the NAM over the past year, one we made a critical part of our agenda and worked extensively with the Administration to see through," he said.

As a founding member of the Coalition for Security and Competitiveness, the NAM has advocated practical steps to modernize the system to make it more predictable, efficient and transparent. NAM President John Engler has met with top officials at the State, Commerce and Defense Departments and the National Security Council. In March 2007, the Coalition sent 19 recommendations to the President to make the current system work better for U.S. security and economic interests.

"Our high-tech companies play a vital role in maintaining our economic and military strength around the world," Engler said. "To remain strong, we need a modern export control system that keeps pace with rapid technological change. Our recommendations will enhance the ability of American manufacturers of high technology products to compete in the global marketplace and improve our military's ability to work with our allies.

Coalition proposals included in the President's plan are available at http://www.nam.org/exportcontrols.

Additional Resources: White House statement; State Dept. Factsheet; Commerce Dept. Factsheet

The National Association of Manufacturers is the nation's largest industrial trade association, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the NAM has 11 additional offices across the country.

CONTACT: J.P. FIELDER (202) 637-3089

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