For further progress to be made toward concluding the Doha Round in2006, countries need to remember that gaining market access forexports is just as important as gaining access to cheaper imports.The U.S. proposal would move beyond the impasse on agriculture andaddress issues of importance to all, including those regardingtrade in services and manufactures.
Ronald Reagan last year vetoed a protectionist textile trade bill that would have cost American consumers billions of dollars in higher prices. This year, Congress once again is considering a law to restrain imports. Passed by the House earlier this month and awaiting Senate action, this warmed over legislation would only assure that many markets remain closed to U.S. exports while new barriers would be erected in retaliation to American protectionism. Moreover, there is no case for increased protection for the textile industry. The U.S. textile and apparel industry today is working at almost maximum possible output, and production is at near record levels. Rather than closing markets further, Congress should consider liberalizing textile trade to relieve the American consumer.