A joint statement upon the conclusion of the fourth NAFTA negotiating round:
"Leaders of the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), National Sorghum Producers (NSP), National Renderers Association (NRA) and the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and representatives of the Mexican livestock industry that are part of the Consejo Nacional Agropecuario (National Agricultural Council in Mexico or CNA) met last week in Washington, D.C. to discuss the priorities of the livestock production chain for the ongoing NAFTA talks and to reiterate their commitment to a strong trading relationship under NAFTA.
“NAFTA has provided the trade policy basis for the most efficient and effective interregional grain and livestock value chain in the world. Our organizations are committed to work together - as we have for more than 30 years - to ensure the success of the industries on both sides of the border.
"Grains and soy trade between Mexico and the United States in 2016 represented more than $6.6 billion dollars with more than 90 percent of these ingredients consumed by the Mexican livestock industry.
"Mexico and the United States should be seen as an integrated supply chain for livestock production. We are neighbors and friends who have grown steadily together for decades in an environment of free trade. While we know there is always room for improvement, such as on sanitary and phytosanitary measures and trade facilitation issues, our partnership has been fruitful for all the parties involved and is critical to the future success of our members and countries.
“In order to continue building on the successful relationships fostered by NAFTA, we jointly support efforts to achieve further regional economic integration and preserve and expand upon the existing benefits of our mutual cooperation. We encourage our negotiators to continue their participation in good faith and produce an agreement that builds upon our ongoing success. We stand ready to give them any help in this endeavor in every way possible."
