Congressman Abraham Calls on Sec. Perdue and U.S. Trade Rep. Lighthizer to Hold China to Phase 1 Deal
By Avery Davidson
The Voice of Louisiana Agriculture
U.S. Farmers will need a third round of Market Facilitation Program (MFP) payments if China reneges on its commitment to purchase more U.S. commodities, according to Louisiana 5th District Congressman Ralph Abraham.
Abraham sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue and U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer asking them both to “hold China’s feet to the fire to uphold its commitment to purchase more U.S. commodities.”
In the letter dated Thursday, July 9, Abraham wrote, “China has yet to live up to its end of the deal, and our farmers are still struggling with market loss as they simultaneously fight COVID-19 disruptions and depressed and inconsistent market prices.”
Abraham added that the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program has been helpful, but that it may not be enough and that a third round of MFP payments will be necessary to keep farmers afloat. The congressman says the cost of another round of MFP is more than offset by duties imposed on Chinese imports.
“The last few years have been extremely difficult for farms all across the country, and many are faced with bankruptcy or significant losses unless conditions improve.” Abraham wrote. “I ask that you continue to work to secure better markets for our farmers and to fight for our Thin Green Line.”