U.S. Chamber Highlights Importance of Trade to Restarting Economy, Creating Jobs in Louisiana

"Gulf Coast states have an enormous opportunity to create their own stimulus package," Schweitzer says

LAKE CHARLES, LA—Speaking before the Gulf Coast Trade Alliance's 2009 World Trade Conference today, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Senior Trade Advisor Leslie Schweitzer outlined the importance of expanding free and fair trade as the fuse to reignite Southwest Louisiana's economy.

"There's no doubt that this region's economy is feeling the economic squeeze, just like much of America," Schweitzer said. "But the Gulf Coast states have an enormous opportunity to create their own economic stimulus package by embracing trade and looking to new markets abroad."

Last year alone, Louisiana exported nearly $200 million worth of goods to the world. Nearly 158,000 jobs came from businesses in the state's manufacturing sector that shipped products overseas and another 7,600 jobs from agriculture exports.

"In today's economic climate, it is imperative that we work to keep markets open for the goods produced by Louisiana's farmers and workers," she said.

The Mississippi River moves upwards of 500 million tons of cargo each year. Maritime activity within the Port of New Orleans is responsible for 160,498 jobs, $8 billion in earnings, $17 billion in spending and $800 million in taxes statewide.

The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

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