Central Louisiana News
Senators introduce bill to protect Louisiana rice from foreign competition
By Central Louisiana News
U.S. Senators, led by Bill Cassidy (R-LA), have introduced the Prioritizing Offensive Agricultural Disputes and Enforcement Act aimed at protecting the Louisiana rice industry from foreign competition, specifically targeting imports from India and China. The bill seeks to address the issue of cheap produce being dumped into U.S. markets.
Dr. Cassidy emphasized the importance of local agriculture, stating, “Louisianans want to eat rice grown in their backyard, not from the other side of the world.” He underscored that the rice industry is vital to Louisiana's economy and stressed the need for fair competition for local farmers.
Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) expressed her commitment to supporting American producers on a global scale: “As a strong advocate for our agriculture industry... I will remain steadfast in fighting those nations that undermine our farmers.”
John Boozman (R-AR) pointed out unfair practices by India, saying, “American rice and wheat farmers continue to be targeted by India’s egregious over-subsidization... This legislation will give us the tools needed to address unfair practices.”
Joni Ernst (R-IA) highlighted how trade impacts Iowa's farmers: “Breaking down bureaucratic barriers between the USDA and USTR will help ensure Iowa farmers are on a level playing field.”
Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) added his support for removing obstacles faced by American agricultural industries: “America’s ag industry can out-compete anyone in the world—as long as the rules are fair.”
The proposed act would establish a joint task force on agricultural trade enforcement led by the U.S. Trade Representative. This task force would monitor industrial subsidies from India and China more proactively and report recommendations to Congress.
Earlier this month, Cassidy questioned U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer about potential tariffs on shrimp imports using illegal antibiotics or forced labor during Greer's confirmation hearing. Last year, Cassidy secured funding for Louisiana fisheries affected by natural disasters.
In previous years, Cassidy has advocated against shrimp dumping from Asia and introduced measures like the India Shrimp Tariff Act to counteract subsidies received by Indian shrimp farming industries.