Still think the economy is sluggish?
(photo courtesy of U.S. CIA)
The gridlock in Congress isn’t helping and
with their delays in reauthorizing trade agreements like the African Growth and
Opportunity Act (AGOA), U.S. companies whose existence rely upon duty-free
African imports – whether in fashion, retail, beauty, foodstuffs, or otherwise
- are going to start laying off people as the uncertainty with respect to AGOA
renewal mounts.
Here’s a snapshot of reasons, recommendations, and how you
can support AGOA renewal in 2015.
AGOA renewal is important not only for keeping existing
companies in business but also for the expansion of other US companies who find
markets within African economies.
A rise in African exports equals increased spending power
amongst African consumers, and with President Obama’s export promotion
initiative in place, this means that US exports have a greater chance for
success when expanding into these foreign markets.
A growing African labor force could also lead to more stable
economies and increase good governance.
With greater economic development and stability, there will be less of
an incentive to join radical groups known to be destructive and that pose a threat
to the world at large, as there will instead be a viable alternative to have a life with meaning and, hence, a vested interest in
creating a common good for society as a whole.
Now is the time to make your voice heard if you want
Congress to vote for the reauthorization of the AGOA trade agreement. Send letters to all of the members of the
House Ways and Means Committee and the Senate Finance Committee, calling for:
1) The expeditious passage of AGOA
2) Renewal for a term of 15 years
3) Such passage to include all current member states
With this, provide a statement highlighting how economic
development and stabilization function as a mechanism to combat terrorism.
The AGOA reauthorization is currently being drafted by
Congress, so now is the time to get your letters in and make your voice heard
if you want to keep US businesses in business and open up foreign markets to US
exports.
Questions/comments? Post below or email me at clark.deanna@gmail.com
On Twitter @fashcompliance
