WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) released the following statement after the Administration issued their intent to enter into three separate trade negotiations with Japan, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. 

“Yesterday’s announcement is welcome news for farmers, manufacturers, and businesses of all sizes in central and west-central Illinois. As I have stated time and time again, free trade is vital to the economic prosperity in Illinois' 18th District. With 95% of the world’s population living outside of the United States, expanding and opening markets around the world for our exporters will allow them to remain competitive in the global economy,” state Rep. LaHood. “I appreciate the Administration's efforts to enter into negotiations with the European Union, Japan, and the United Kingdom. This is an important step towards high-standard trade and I look forward to consulting with both the Administration and my colleagues on the Ways and Means Committee to ensure the needs of farmers and businesses in central and west-central Illinois are priorities in these negotiations.”