A governor's perspective on the trade - Wisconsin governor Tommy G. Thompson

Business America, May 6, 1991 by Tommy G. Thomposn

The governors were very active during the negotiation of that agreement. The NGA Task Force on U.S.Canada Trade, which I chaired, worked closely with U.S. negotiators to provide a sounding board for various proposals affecting state laws and programs. We also established a closer relationship with Canadian premiers through a series of exchanges that is ongoing.

As implementation of the agreement proceeds, states are helping American companies gear up to take full advantage of the trade opportunities inherent in this new trade relationship with one of America's oldest trading partners. To do this more effectively, some states are teaming up. Pooling state resources saves dollars, enhances services available to businesses, and increases the impact that can be made in the international marketplace. The Council of Great Lakes Governors, which I also chair, recently established a joint liaison office in Canada to coordinate market research, collect trade leads, and provide assistance to companies in the Great Lakes states. Other groups of states are entering into cooperative arrangements to meet a range of international goals.

European Community. The European Community's effort aimed at a fully integrated market by 1992 could be one of the most important international economic events of this century. A streamlined, more efficient market in Europe means more commercial opportunities for American companies; it is essential that states help U.S. businesses keep abreast of changes there.

The National Governors' Association is working with the European Community to provide governors with information about the EC 1992 initiative. A delegation of nine governors traveled to Brussels last year to meet with top EC officials and discuss the climate for enhanced American business opportunities. Governors also engaged in comparative discussions about sorting out government roles and responsibilities, a topic of great interest to both governors and European leaders. A second visit is being planned. These ongoing contacts provide a forum for sharing ideas and information and addressing concerns.

Central Europe. In the last year, Americans have been following the unraveling of the Communist governments in Central Europe and the move to multiparty systems in these countries. More exciting times are ahead. Policymakers in all nations are scrambling to keep up with these events. We governors take a special interest. When President George Bush met with us in Chicago last summer, he called us America's "economic ambassadors" and encouraged us to go to Central Europe to promote trade and offer assistance to a Europe in transition. Many governors have traveled to the region to find out first hand what might be done.

Japan. In recognition of the vast trade and investment opportunities available in Japan and throughout the Pacific Rim, 38 states have set up offices in Japan. Trading with Japan is not easy. We have learned over the years that governors can help open doors, give assurances, lend credibility, untangle bureaucratic red tape, and initiate special arrangements.