The resolution introduced in the House of Representatives outlines the importance of the digital economy

Last week, a bipartisan resolution was introduced in the US House of Representatives outlining the importance of the digital economy and aiming to strengthen US leadership in digital trade negotiations with other countries.

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Specifically, the resolution calls on the White House to negotiate “strong, inclusive, forward-looking, and enforceable rules” for digital trade with like-minded countries. It is part of a broader trade and economic strategy to address trade barriers and ensure American values ​​are at the heart of the digital world.

“Digital commerce is an engine for economic growth and a means to promote American values ​​and standards around the world,” said Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL), one of the resolution’s sponsors. “Supporting a free and open digital trade policy will support our broader trade and economic strategy, help US industry remain competitive in the global marketplace, and support our national security interests. As co-chair of the bipartisan Digital Trade Caucus, I, along with Rep. Suzan DelBene, will continue to advocate for a robust and proactive trade agenda that strengthens the American economy and empowers the US to work with our partners and allies to set rules and standards the evolving digital retail market.”

In addition to LaHood, U.S. Representatives Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Steve Chabot (R-OH) and Ami Bera (D-CA) are also sponsors.

“In the 21st century, the US should be the rule-maker, not the rule-taker, of the global digital economy. Digital commerce is far more than just the tech sector. It supports nearly 8 million American jobs and is particularly important to Washington state’s technology, agriculture, and manufacturing industries. This resolution encourages the US to pursue digital trade chapters in broader trade and economic agreements that also emphasize strong labor and environmental provisions,” DelBene said. “Without American leadership in this area, we now risk an uncontrolled China with its dangerous example based on censorship and surveillance.”

DelBene is vice chair of the House Ways & Means Committee.

“Without U.S. leadership and engagement in negotiations, there is no guarantee that digital trade policies affecting the U.S. will be pro-workers, pro-consumers, or pro-small business,” said Bera, chair of the House foreign affairs subcommittee on Asia Pacific, Central Asia and non-proliferation, said. “It’s critical to advance policy efforts that ensure workers are treated fairly, consumer privacy is protected and that small businesses have the digital tools they need to create good jobs.”

The resolution was supported by US Representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Adrian Smith (R-NE).

“Expanding digital commerce through high-standard agreements would bring untold benefits to American consumers, workers and small businesses,” said Chabot, senior member of the subcommittee. “As the senior member of the Asia-Pacific Subcommittee on Foreign Affairs, I see this as particularly critical in the Indo-Pacific region, where countries are seeking increased U.S. economic engagement.”

An accompanying resolution was introduced in the Senate, sponsored by US Sens. Todd Young (R-IN) and Tom Carper (D-DE). It is co-sponsored by US Sentinels Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ben Cardin (D-MD) and John Cornyn (R-TX).