NAM responds to proposed reforms of export controls.
Press Release Summary:
In response to announcement that Obama Administration will review export control policies, Frank Vargo said NAM is pleased Department of Commerce will consider eliminating many export licensing requirements for allies and partner nations. Department will also develop system for exports to countries that do not pose security threats. Vargo believes these actions will allow U.S. companies to compete for lucrative foreign markets, while focusing on efforts vital to national security.
Original Press Release:
Nam Commends Secretary Locke on Proposed Reforms of Export Controls
Active Involvement Of Senior Officials Promises Real Reforms
WASHINGTON, D.C., October 1, 2009 - National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) Vice President for International Economic Affairs Frank Vargo today issued the following statement in response to Commerce Secretary Gary Locke's announcement that the Obama Administration will undertake a comprehensive review of export control policies:
The NAM is pleased by Commerce Secretary Locke's comments today that the Department will consider eliminating many export licensing requirements for allies and partner nations, and will develop a fast-track system for exports to countries that do not pose significant security threats. These are vitally important first steps in fulfilling the President's commitment to a comprehensive review of export control policies.
We are optimistic these actions will lead to eliminating needless controls, allowing U.S. companies to compete for lucrative foreign markets, while focusing controls more tightly on technologies that actually are vital to national security. The current system, developed during the Cold War, does not serve national security, but does undermine U.S. competitiveness and discourage job creation.
Secretary Locke's statement that he, Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton are personally discussing these changes and coordinating their efforts, is another encouraging sign. The personal involvement of cabinet officers is crucial to making progress.
The NAM took another important step this week, partnering with the U.S. Department of Commerce and China's Ministry of Commerce to hold the first-ever U.S. - China High Technology Working Group public-private dialogue. That day-long meeting brought Chinese and American firms together with government officials to consider how more U.S. civilian high-technology products can be sold to China's consumers.
The goal of these efforts will be to expand U.S. exports, boosting our economy and creating jobs, while also improving U.S. national security.
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 10 additional offices across the country. Visit www.nam.org for more information about manufacturing and the economy.
