Global Sugar Alliance members are active participants in processes to improve the world sugar trading environment. Members works closely together to ensure the fair and equal treatment of sugar in the WTO negotiations on agriculture.
Published: 07/07/2006 Abstract: Global Sugar Alliance Chairman, Mr Keith De Lacy said the US Sugar Program is out of step. ?It is out of step with other US agricultural policies. It is out of step with the substantial sugar policy reforms occurring in Europe. And, it is out of step with US objectives for an ambitious Doha Round outcome on Market Access?.
Full Article: Meeting in Geneva, the Global Sugar Alliance called for reform of the US sugar program. Global Sugar Alliance Chairman, Mr Keith De Lacy said the US Sugar Program is out of step. “It is out of step with other US agricultural policies. It is out of step with the substantial sugar policy reforms occurring in Europe. And, it is out of step with US objectives for an ambitious Doha Round outcome on Market Access”, Mr De Lacy said. The US is calling for significant improvements in Market Access for all products here in Geneva, seeking more from both the EU and Developing Countries. Yet, it is unwilling to show leadership by granting unconditional increases in access to its own market. Mr De Lacy said, “the US approach on sugar comes at significant cost to its own economy.” Consumers pay more for their sugar, US jobs are lost and the sugar program does not provide security of supply. The international competitiveness of food and beverage manufacturers is reduced causing many of them to take their factories off-shore. Quoting the USDA, Mr De Lacy said, “every job saved in the sugar industry causes the loss of three jobs in sugar using industries.” The US sugar sector is highly concentrated. There are less than 1000 sugar cane farmers in the USA and less than 8000 beet farmers. Corporate welfare is entrenched. “We all know US sugar politics are difficult. Nonetheless, it is time for the US to show the world its commitment to free trade and introduce unconditional changes at home,” Mr De Lacy said. Mr De Lacy also stressed the need to have a successful outcome to the Doha Development Round. He called on all participating countries to enter into the spirit of reform and make the necessary concessions. “Improved trading conditions are in everyone’s interests and Doha must not be allowed to fail.”
