The US should be having a full and open debate about the controversial Trans-Pacific Partnership, because the provisions of the 12-country agreement on trade and investment will have important consequences for Americans and their partners. Unfortunately, the Obama administration has opted for secrecy.
WASHINGTON, DC – The debate in the United States about trade has taken an unfortunate turn. Instead of discussing the detailed issues on their merits, President Barack Obama’s administration has chosen to emphasize the need for fast-track procedures (also known as trade promotion authority, or TPA) to negotiate any trade agreement. The administration may win that fight, but there could be real damage as a result.
WASHINGTON, DC – The debate in the United States about trade has taken an unfortunate turn. Instead of discussing the detailed issues on their merits, President Barack Obama’s administration has chosen to emphasize the need for fast-track procedures (also known as trade promotion authority, or TPA) to negotiate any trade agreement. The administration may win that fight, but there could be real damage as a result.