Globalization and Technology

Objective

Resist foreign attempts to hinder the ability of U.S. high-tech companies to compete in the global marketplace.

Summary of the Issue

Business, especially high-tech business, has become global in scope. Companies must now be concerned not only with domestic regulatory and compliance issues, but also with international requirements. For example:

• Internet Privacy – The European Union (EU) issued a Privacy Directive in 1998. This directive prohibits businesses in countries that do not comply with the EU's privacy standards from receiving information about European citizens. The privacy laws in the United States do not conform to the EU directive; however, through a "safe harbor" program individual companies can certify that they comply with the directive voluntarily.
• Free Trade Agreements – Through trade promotion authority, the United States now has an opportunity to take a leadership role in a number of ongoing trade negotiations. When implemented, free trade agreements (FTAs) will help boost trade and investment on a mutually beneficial basis and open new markets to U.S. goods and services. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce will work to ensure FTAs do not place undue burdens on U.S. innovation and the deployment of new technologies.
• Standards – As consumers of mobile telecommunications services increasingly seek worldwide compatibility of their devices, the United States must take the lead in deploying the latest generation of wireless services to avoid being forced to adopt technology standards as dictated by other countries.

U.S. Chamber Strategy

• Press for the removal of legal and regulatory barriers to technology deployment by providing comments, testimony, and policy recommendations in domestic legislative and regulatory forums.
• Push for full protection of the United States' interests through vigorous application of U.S. trade remedy laws in order to secure congressional approval of FTAs.
• Promote workable international agreements that sustain U.S. technology development.

Staff Contact Information

Environment, Technology & Regulatory Affairs Division
(202) 463-5533
environment@uschamber.com