ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA, U.S. — The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) on May 14 voiced its support for the U.S. Senate approval of the motion to proceed on trade promotion authority (TPA) legislation.

The AFIA said it strongly urges affirmative final TPA votes in both the Senate and House.

The so-called “fast track” authority gives the U.S. president the ability to negotiate international agreements that Congress can approve or disapprove but cannot amend or filibuster.

"AFIA's board of directors was on Capitol Hill this week, meeting with their House and Senate members, explaining the importance of TPA to the feed industry,” said Joel Newman, president and chief executive officer of AFIA. “AFIA will continue to push for TPA as a member of the Trade Benefits America coalition, stressing the importance of providing President Barack Obama TPA.

"Pending trade pacts, including the TransPacific Partnership, provide incredible growth possibilities through direct feed and ingredient exports, as well as increased exports of U.S. livestock, poultry and dairy products. Without passage of TPA, U.S. negotiators will continue to lack the ability and leverage needed when negotiating free trade agreements.

"TPA sets congressional parameters and priorities for U.S. trade negotiations, but assures the president a final trade agreement cannot be amended during congressional review and approval."