Today, the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) urged the U.S. Congress to immediately approve the U.S./ Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA) Implementation Act (HR 5724). Earlier this week, President George Bush submitted the TPA to Congress to make permanent current temporary trade programs - ensuring a market for U.S. raw materials, like cotton, and increasing access for finished U.S. products into the Colombian market.

"The Colombia TPA is necessary to ensure continued fair, comprehensive trade," said AAFA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke. "The importance of Colombia as a trading partner has been stressed by the entire textile and apparel industry."

An unprecedented coalition of representatives from the entire U.S. textile and apparel supply chain - from cotton to consumer - previously wrote a joint-letter to Congress and the Bush Administration outlining the vital need for a predictable relationship with the Andean region, including Colombia.

"The TPA will contribute to economic stability for both countries," continued Burke. "Now is the time for leadership and I hope all members of Congress will unite to support the U.S./ Colombia TPA."