When the future of grid security, smart manufacturing, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure is deeply intertwined with trade policy, the importance of ensuring a level playing field cannot be overstated. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) recently emphasized this critical need during a hearing held by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). Represented by Patrick Lozada, Senior Director of Global Policy, NEMA called for a prompt review and modernization of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to safeguard the competitiveness and innovation of the U.S. electrical manufacturing sector.
NEMA argues that robust enforcement of USMCA is essential to foster sustained innovation and maintain the global competitiveness of American electrical manufacturers. A stable and predictable trade environment encourages long-term investments, driving technological advancements and job creation. Lozada highlighted that current uncertainties in trade policy pose potential risks to industry growth, urging USTR to prioritize addressing these challenges.
Specifically, NEMA outlined three key recommendations for USTR:
First, strengthen intellectual property protections under USMCA to combat counterfeit products and protect the rights of U.S. businesses. Second, establish a more transparent and efficient dispute resolution mechanism to ensure timely and fair resolutions of trade conflicts. Third, conduct regular assessments of USMCA’s implementation, making necessary adjustments to adapt to evolving global trade dynamics.
By implementing these measures, NEMA believes USMCA can fulfill its role as a catalyst for regional economic prosperity while creating a more favorable environment for the U.S. electrical manufacturing industry.