CAFTA, yea or nay?
 

Here's an article in support:

http://www.ustr.gov/new/fta/cafta.htm

Here's one against:

http://www.thenation.com/doc.mhtml?i=20040202&s=engler

Personally, I don't see much direct benefit to the US. Folks in these countries for the most part cannot afford US goods anyhow -- so "opening up new markets" is not a reason that I can really believe.

On the other hand, US manufacturers need places to go for cheap labor. I'd rather have US manufacturing firms owning plants down there than Chinese ones.


Anyone have thoughts on this?

I just wanted to point out that manufacturing as a share of the US GDP has not decreased since the mid-1970s and that the whole reason manufacturing jobs are being lost is not outsourcing to other countries, but is increased efficiency and productivity through rapidy improving technology.

That being said, this agreement would benefit us because it would reduce tariffs on our exports, and the more we export, the better, at this point.

I would have to advise a definite "NAY" to this one... NAFTA screwed us up here...

However I do find it interesting that the US has free-trade agreements with so many countries

What's wrong with free trade?

When the US needs the advice of another canadian ex-military grunt who is 50 and still in college, I'll let them know you're available.

-Rudey

Rudey, will you comment on the manufacturing situation? We've been discussing it ad nauseum in my early class and I'd like another opinion.

50? I thought I was 75 or was it 60... I can't seem to remember what age you keep saying I am... must be the senility setting in :p

What??

-Rudey

"You here for coping with senility?"

"Nope, microwave cooking...no wait...............coping with senility."