USGC Applauds Confirmation Of USTR’s Chief Agricultural Negotiator And WTO Representative

A statement from U.S. Grains Council (USGC) President and CEO Tom Sleight on the confirmations of Gregg Doud and Dennis Shea:

“We are excited and energized to see that Gregg Doud has been confirmed as the next chief agricultural negotiator at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and that Dennis Shea has been confirmed as ambassador to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

“U.S. agriculture needs Ambassador Doud in his new position. He is uniquely skilled to represent our sector immediately in the trade negotiations happening as we speak. Having the position of chief agricultural negotiator filled by a competent, experienced leader is truly critical to our success in the ongoing North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) modernization process, the reexamination of the U.S.-South Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) and as we look to new trade talks that can help ensure our market access.

“Equally as important is Ambassador Shea’s quick arrival to the tasks facing the WTO. The WTO sets the rules of the road for global trade and provides the mechanism for correction when we hit unfair constraints in our efforts to increase U.S. grain sales. We work closely with U.S. representatives at the WTO and are hopeful that Ambassador Shea is able to help make this body stronger and more effective for our members.

“Agriculture is complex and unique. USTR’s staff has done an outstanding job of listening to our perspectives and representing our interests while Ambassador Doud and Ambassador Shea awaited confirmation. We look forward to their added expertise in these tasks very soon.”