A hearing convened by the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office and the International Trade Commission investigated Brazilian trade practices. This Section 301 investigation is considering if Brazil’s action is an unfair barrier to U.S. trade. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Executive Director of Government Affairs Kent Bacus testified, asking the White House to suspend beef imports from Brazil until food safety and animal health issues are addressed. National Corn Growers Association President Kenneth Hartman Jr. said Brazilian policies “unfairly penalize U.S. corn growers.” Ethanol groups, including Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association, claim Brazil has enjoyed access to the U.S. market for ethanol, but imposes unfair requirements on the United States.
