Friday, April 25, 2008

The Enigma That Is CFTA

The debate between the President and the Democrat controlled House over the free trade agreement with Colombia (CFTA) is about as enigmatic as they come.

On the one hand, the President argues that refusal to ratify CFTA will undercut President Eribe, a valuable ally in the region. Yet, almost all of Colombia's products shipped to this country enter tariff-free while it is our products shipped to Colombia that are subject to Colombian tariffs. So, it seems, Columbia will give more than it receives under CFTA. That being so, the argument that refusal to ratify CFTA undercuts Colombia seems to be besides the point.

On the other hand, Rep. Pelosi is blocking action in the House citing a variety of reasons; mainly the treatment and safety of Colombian workers, and that it got in the way of work on the needs of American families. But, again, the reasons are spurious. CFTA would be a jobs creator in America because it opens Colombian markets to American products. What else could be more central to the needs of American working families?

Neither side are making sensible arguments to support their case. But, why? Eliminating tariffs which hinder growth of markets and the accompanying jobs creation seems to be a no-brainer. Yet, it is not central to the argument. That doesn't make sense.

Tag: Trackposted to Pirate's Cove, Rosemary's Thoughts, McCain Blogs, Maggie's Notebook, Right Voices, and The Yankee Sailor, thanks to Linkfest Haven Deluxe.

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