Rep. Joe Wilson Statement on H.R. 2146

Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed H.R. 2146, which included the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act.

“As the leading exporter of cars and tires, South Carolinians know the benefits of international trade. By reaching international markets through trade agreements, we are creating economic opportunities for businesses of all sizes across South Carolina. The benefits of trade are clear—more jobs and higher wages—making South Carolina an even better place to live and work.

“This was not a vote for or against a specific trade agreement, but simply a vote to give Congress final approval in future trade agreements, increase transparency, and establish accountability over the President’s trade negotiations.

“Increasing trade opportunities helps South Carolina create jobs and establish certainty in trade negotiations in an increasingly competitive global market. In today’s interconnected economy, free trade is crucial to protecting America’s economic power,” Wilson said.

Key facts about Free Trade and South Carolina:

• There are an estimated 559, 329 trade-related jobs in S.C. –74, 598 in the Second District. These jobs are across all sectors of our economy, including manufacturing, agriculture, and service.
• S.C. trade-related employment grew 4.6 times faster than total state employment.
• South Carolina is the home of BMW’s largest manufacturing plan in the world, and the Michelin’ Lexington facilities are their largest investment in the world, indicating the success of German and French manufacturing.
• Small and medium sized businesses are 85 percent of South Carolina’s exporters—and most likely to be positively affected by TPA.
• $8.6 billion of S.C. exports—or 14 percent of our GDP—went to free trade partners with South Carolina being America’s leading exporter of automobiles and tires.
• Agricultural exports support 6,900 jobs in our state and account for $913 million of S.C. exports.
• Free trade cuts prices on imported goods and increases consumer choice for South Carolina families.

Key facts from: “How South Carolina’s Economy Benefits from International Trade & Investment”