Bipartisan trade discussion in Congress is essential for Michigan’s economic future

The Michigan Smart Trade Alliance says congressional debate over Canadian tariffs is an opportunity to rebalance the discussion around smart trade policy

LANSING, Michigan — The bipartisan Michigan Smart Trade Alliance (MISTA)today released the following statement regarding congressional efforts to discuss the needs of Michigan businesses during this time of trade and tariff negotiations:

“MISTA has received great interest from Michigan businesses across manufacturing, agriculture, tourism and more, because they are urgently seeking thoughtful, nonpartisan discussion about the impact of U.S. trade policies on Michigan’s economy. It is no surprise that members of Congress are hearing the same thing,” said John Sellek, a spokesman for MISTA. “We call on the House to discard political attacks, skip the postering and focus on trade policy discussions that impact nearly every sector of business and industry. The debate centered around Canada, the top trade partner for our state, underscores the necessity to get focused on results-oriented solutions that will support stability for job creators and workers across the entire state of Michigan.”

“Michigan job creators need predictable, stable trade policies that encourage long-term investment, create jobs and expand markets,” said Mark Fisk, a spokesman for MISTA. “Congressional discussion around U.S.-Canadian trade policies should be focused on meeting the needs of businesses, farmers and consumers across Michigan. We should work collaboratively with Canada, our longstanding and reliable trade partner, so both our nations can create jobs and lower costs by promoting smart trade policies.” 

Multiple Michigan business advocacy organizations have joined the MISTA coalition this year already.