HONOLULU – The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii today joined more than 300 state and local business associations from across all 50 states in expressing its support for a modernized North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and urging the Trump administration to “do no harm” as negotiations continue.
In a letter sent to President Donald Trump, 314 state and local chambers of commerce reiterated the business community’s strong support for NAFTA and the millions of American jobs it supports.
“Business leaders across the country know first-hand that trade with Canada and Mexico has created American jobs, boosted economic growth, and strengthened local economies,” the letter reads. “But we know we can do even more to seize the benefits of trade with our North American neighbors.”
The message conveyed in the letter demonstrates a U.S. business community united in support of a constructive renegotiation process and a modernized NAFTA – and against continued threats of withdrawal from the agreement.
“As the statewide Chamber for Hawaii, we support a modernized NAFTA and continue the regional trade and cross-border investment the United States currently enjoys with Canada and Mexico,” said Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Sherry Menor McNamara. “As these negotiations continue, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii will continue to actively advocate for policies that benefit businesses in Hawaii.”
Members of the U.S. Congress also received copies of the letter, which is available online here.
“We urge you to support America’s workers, farmers, ranchers, and businesses of all sizes by protecting and preserving the deep economic ties and benefits the United States continues to enjoy under NAFTA,” the letter concludes.
As the “Voice of Business” in Hawaii, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is the state’s leading advocacy organization. Established in 1850, the Chamber works on behalf of its approximately 1,600 member companies and the business community, as a whole, to advance the state’s economic climate and help businesses succeed. The Chamber supports its members with training, business building and networking opportunities; coordinates advocacy activities for members’ involvement; and serves as a liaison between civilian and military communities in Hawaii. Visit cochawaii.org.
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