Nelson: Brazil pushing U.S. to lift tariffs

[Judi Lynn]

Nelson: Brazil pushing U.S. to lift tariffs

By Alex Clifton, Palm Beach Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, December 23, 2003



WEST PALM BEACH -- U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson warned the citrus and sugar industry's leaders Monday that Brazil is stepping up efforts to lift U.S. tariffs on orange juice and other imports.

After a seven-country tour of Latin American nations last week, Nelson spoke at the Kravis Center to about 20 business leaders assembled by the World Trade Center Palm Beach.

Nelson, D-Fla., focused his comments on his visit to Brazil and that country's increased pressure to revoke the 29.7-cents-a-gallon tariff on imported orange juice.

"I think we're going to have a very tortuous process of negotiations," Nelson said. "Brazil seems intent on having its way."

The largest economy in South America, Brazil wants the tax dropped from its imports, but Florida citrus farmers say that would ruin their industry. With cheap land and cheap labor, Brazil can sell products, including citrus and sugar, for less and take over a market.
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http://www.palmbeachpost.com/business/content/auto/epaper/editions/tuesday/business_f37e6cd0f626400c00c9.html

[GRClarkesq]

1. free trade vs. florida votes

a dilemna! again!