LANSING, Mich. — Former U. S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and state leaders met Monday, Sept. 23, to discuss United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
The conversation focused on the benefits of passing the trade agreement and how it could effect farmers and small business owners in Michigan.
According to Vilsack, USMCA is a modern version of NAFTA that takes into consideration the needs of current suppliers -- especially in the agricultural department.
Vilsack said the agreement preserves markets and enhances market opportunities for produce.
According to supporters of the agreement, USMCA could provide Michigan farmers with better security when it comes to markets for their products.
Former Lieutenant Governor of Michigan Brian Calley said this issue is important enough for people to cross party lines to achieve the best interest for suppliers, especially small businesses and farmers.
"Lack of agreement puts our domestic producers in a not competitive position," Calley said.
Both Calley and Vilsack agreed that the most essential part of the agreement is to get it passed before 2020 to avoid undoing all the negotiations that have taken place so far.
Michigan Farm Bureau is also a big supporter of this agreement and hosted the talk at their headquarters.
Want to see more local news ? Visit the FOX47News Website.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Appleand Android
and
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox.
Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
