WASHINGTON, D.C. – Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor thanked farm-state lawmakers who called on the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to stand strong against Brazilian trade barriers targeting U.S. ethanol. Led by Reps. Darin LaHood (IL-18) and Adrian Smith (NE-03), 20 members of the House sent a letter calling on USTR Ambassador Robert E. Lighthizer to demand a “level playing field for U.S. ethanol,” which faces a prohibitive 20 percent tariff on imports beyond a specified quota, while Brazil continues to be afforded virtually tariff-free access to the U.S.
“Brazil is a vital market for U.S. ethanol, but our exports to the nation plummeted by nearly a third last year under the nation’s unjustified and unfair approach,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “For years, the U.S.-Brazil trade relationship has been a source of strength and growth for both nations, and we cannot afford to see that progress destroyed. With agricultural communities struggling to get back on their feet in the wake of COVID-19, it’s vital that U.S. negotiators use every tool at their disposal to ensure American exports are placed on a level playing field with Brazilian exports. We applaud leaders in Congress who are stepping up to ensure rural families have a seat at the table.”