AFTE Statement on Upcoming Meeting Between U.S. President Joseph Biden and South Korean President Moon Jae-in
WASHINGTON (May 19) – Today, Executive Director of the Alliance for Trade Enforcement Brian Pomper released the following statement ahead of South Korean President Moon Jae-in’s meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House:
“It’s encouraging to see President Biden prioritize dialogue with President Moon Jae-in so early in his presidency. The United States and Korea have long enjoyed a strong, mutually beneficial partnership. Friday’s meeting between the two leaders presents an opportunity to reinvigorate this relationship, especially as it relates to trade.
“In 2018, our countries completed negotiations on revisions to the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS). In President Moon’s own words, these changes were intended to ‘achieve a freer, fairer, and more mutually beneficial agreement.’
“While AFTE applauds this goal, the Alliance is concerned by Korea’s slow implementation of KORUS’ amendments and persistent regulatory trade barriers that impact a wide range of American industries, including the chemical, motion picture, pharmaceutical, and auto sectors.
“During his meeting with President Moon, the Alliance for Trade Enforcement encourages President Biden to call for the full implementation of KORUS and address the remaining trade barriers. Holding Korea accountable for the commitments it has made will kick start a new era of U.S.-Korea trade at a time when our nations need it most.”
About the Alliance for Trade Enforcement: The Alliance for Trade Enforcement is a coalition of trade associations and business groups that advocates for foreign governments to end unfair trade practices that harm U.S. innovative industries and supports U.S. policymakers in their efforts to hold our trading partners accountable.