U.S. Chamber Free Trade Summit Highlights Benefits to Michigan Economy

DETROIT, MI -The United States Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Representative Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) and Detroit business leaders came together today to highlight the importance of free trade to Michigan's economic future.

"Broadening free trade means exposure to more markets for high-tech and small businesses all over the state of Michigan," said Leslie Schweitzer, the Chamber's Senior Trade Advisor. "In a sluggish economy, we are working with local businesses to help expand their operations internationally."

U.S. Rep. Knollenberg joined members of the U.S. Chamber's TradeRoots team, as well as representatives from the Detroit Chamber and local business leaders, to stress how crucial access to international markets is for the state's small and medium-sized businesses.

The summit is a part of the overall TradeRoots trade education program, which is designed to combat trade protectionism and to show what international trade means for increased economic and business development locally.

The summit is one of several trade-related events the U.S. Chamber will co-sponsor over the next twelve months as it makes a grassroots push for Trade Promotion Authority. The Chamber will focus attention and build support for the passage of TPA, which Congress has granted to every President since 1974.

"The renewal of Trade Promotion Authority is critical to U.S. leadership and negotiating credibility in world economic affairs," said Schweitzer. "Failure to renew will deprive American companies, workers and families the chance to be competitive in the global marketplace."

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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