COA Welcomes the Introduction of the Americas Act

Council of the Americas welcomes the bipartisan and bicameral introduction today of the Americas Act, with the leadership of Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Michael Bennet (D-CO), and Representatives María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) and Adriano Espaillat (D-NY). The proposed legislation is an exciting new effort by the U.S. Congress to amplify the economic potential of the Americas and guarantee supply-chain resiliency by fostering regional trade, investment, and people-to-people partnerships.

For too long, the Western Hemisphere has been overlooked as a partner for the United States. The recent pandemic demonstrated the danger of this outdated approach. As China continues to move aggressively into the region, the Americas Act seeks to re-center Latin America and the Caribbean as a strategic imperative by locking in access to critical materials, developing digital and physical infrastructure, and competing for hearts and minds.

Council of the Americas is particularly pleased to note that the Americas Act would create a pathway to U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) accession for willing nations in the Americas that prove capable of meeting the obligations of this cutting-edge trade agreement. In addition, the Americas Act seeks to increase trade and integration, drive investment, and bolster regional supply chains while improving labor conditions, strengthening the environment, and combating corruption.

Americas Society/Council of the Americas President and CEO Susan Segal said, "This bill is a positive development designed to strengthen ties with Latin American allies and reinforce key sectors of the economy in the Western Hemisphere. We are pleased to see the introduction of this effort to foster economic integration." 

In welcoming the Americas Act, Council Vice President and Washington office head Eric Farnsworth said, “What a timely and worthy initiative. As Washington recognizes our need to contend more actively and successfully for the Americas, Congress—on a bipartisan basis—is now offering a new look that deserves early and favorable consideration.”

Press contact: mediarelations@as-coa.org

Council of the Americas is the premier international business organization whose members share a common commitment to economic and social development, open markets, the rule of law, and democracy throughout the Western Hemisphere. The Council's membership consists of leading international companies representing a broad spectrum of sectors, including banking and finance, consulting services, consumer products, energy and mining, manufacturing, media, technology, and transportation.