Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines recently engaged in a discussion with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer during a Senate Finance Committee hearing. They examined the objectives of President Donald Trump's trade agenda, emphasizing the need to curb the flow of fentanyl precursors from China and to expand global market access for American producers.

Daines expressed concerns about the possibility of a trade war and its impact. He stated, "A trade war will mean higher prices for the American consumer." He further underscored the potential inflationary effects and the risk of markets closing for U.S. farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers.

He noted that President Trump's announcements have drawn the attention of various countries, citing ongoing negotiations and interest from nations like Korea and Japan. Daines added, "With 95% of the world’s consumers outside the United States—critically important. So this is very encouraging."

The senator also shared his optimism about recent developments in equity markets, suggesting that there is hope tariffs might lead to resolving trade issues. He mentioned, "This kind of tough position we’re taking to actually solve some of these problems and barriers in trade that have been lingering for decades."

Daines encouraged the administration to use this opportunity to improve trade terms that could protect and grow American jobs and increase market access for U.S. farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers. He recounted a recent visit to Vietnam and China, where he met with top officials and urged China to halt the flow of fentanyl precursors while expressing concerns about U.S. beef exports.

The senator highlighted past successes, recalling a 2017 meeting that resulted in China lifting a 14-year ban on U.S. beef imports. However, he voiced concerns over recent declines in beef exports to China, stating, "March exports of beef to China, U.S. beef, declined 92 percent."

In response, Greer acknowledged the persistent challenges with China's trade practices and hoped for more constructive outcomes. He affirmed, "I think President Trump is focused on making sure we have the right program in place."

Senator Daines concluded on a hopeful note regarding ongoing negotiations with Japan, Korea, and other countries, saying, "This could be absolutely a monumental moment in trade for the United States and godspeed."