Dreier Votes to Renew Andean Trade Agreement

November 16, 2001

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Calling the vote “another important step toward free trade throughout the Western Hemisphere,” Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, voted today to approve the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act, or H.R. 3009. The legislation, which extends the Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) through December 31, 2006, was approved by the House today. The existing ATPA legislation expires on December 4, 2001.

“Expanded trade opportunities in the Western Hemisphere will mean new jobs for Americans and more choices for consumers,” Dreier said. “It will also bring about greater prosperity and strengthened democracy in South America. By approving this measure today, we’re reaffirming our commitment to a Free Trade Area of the Americas by the year 2005.”

H.R. 3009 gives the President the authority to grant duty-free treatment for the imports of certain products from the Andean countries of Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru. The bill would expand trade and promote economic development as a way to create viable alternatives to illicit drug production, thereby enhancing political security in the Andean region and the hemisphere.

Dreier expressed his hope that with the passage of H.R. 3009 today, the Congress would soon vote to grant President Bush Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). “The new world economy is defined by an ever increasing number of trade agreements,” Dreier said. “Over the years, these agreements have brought nations together and improved standards of living for millions around the world. The President needs TPA to get the United States back to the negotiating table. It will do our economy a world of good.”