CTA Says New Trade Deal Must Support U.S. Tech Leadership

The following statement is attributed to Michael Petricone, senior vice president, government and regulatory affairs, Consumer Technology Association (CTA), regarding the announcement of a bilateral trade deal between the United States and Mexico:

“A deal that encourages free trade between our countries certainly is welcome. But if President Trump really wants a better deal than NAFTA, an agreement must support our country’s technology leadership – the key to U.S. economic growth and job creation. Specifically, a new accord must do four things:

1. Reduce barriers to digital trade, such as eliminating forced data localization and tariffs on digital content;
2. Protect intellectual property rights and innovation, with a balanced copyright approach including fair use and intermediary liability protections;
3. Eliminate technical barriers to trade through an open and aligned regulatory process; and
4. Recognize parity in rules of origin, which supports American industries, supply chains and workers.