In addition to trading under rules that should put the interests of workers and their communities over those of corporations, the best trade policy for America also involves choosing the right trading partners and creating negotiating goals specific to the political, social and economic conditions a given country.  For example, Japan, a potential partner in the Trans-Pacific FTA, has markets closed to U.S. products, like automobiles.

If the administration decides to include Japan as a negotiating partner, it must approach the negotiations with more than just tariff reductions in mind, because those would achieve little in a country that already has very low tariffs but very closed markets.  Similarly, the administration has announced its intention to make the Trans-Pacific FTA an “open” agreement so new trading partners can join later.  Does that mean that anyPacific Region nation, regardless of its commitment to democracy, human rights and labor rights, will be allowed into the Trans-Pacific FTA?  If so, this could severely restrict U.S. ability to address these paramount issues through trade sanctions in countries like Burma and Bangladesh. 

At a time of high unemployment, wage stagnation and little economic growth, the Trans-Pacific FTA must build new ground and finally put the creation of well-paying jobs ahead of stockholder dividends for the very few. It is still too early to tell if the Trans-Pacific FTA will live up to its promise to create great opportunities for America's working families.  Now is the time to speak up and share your concerns with the president or your member of Congress.