Broccoli and Free Trade

 
(REDONDO BEACH, California - May 25, 2016)  U.S. trade isn't usually high on the conversational topic of most people, including
Rotarians.
 
 
At today's luncheon our speaker set out to change our mindset  and focused our attention on free trade. Sarita D. Jackson, Ph.D. is the founder, president and CEO of the Global Research Institute of International Trade (GRIIT), a think-tank/consulting firm focused on trade policy analysis and advising businesses on the best strategies for taking advantage of global market opportunities.
 
In 25 minutes she explained the philosophies that underlie most American's attitudes about free trade with other nations.  "The first belief is that free trade eliminates tariffs and secondly that it increases or eliminates quotes," she said. The answer, she said, It all depends because the United States has numerous bilateral trade agreements with nations worldwide.
 
Turning her attention to the current presidential race, she asked: "Are the candidates protectionists, free trade advocates or somewhere in between?"
 
The rhetoric against U.S. free trade deals, such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), has increased during this year’s presidential debates, she noted. For example, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton shifted her support away from the TPP once the deal was complete. Presidential candidate Donald Trump has been vociferous against unfair trade practices and has focused his attention on China. Meanwhile President Barack Obama argues in favor of the TPP and established the National Export Initiative to double U.S. exports between 2010 and 2015.
 
Dr. Jackson also discussed the T-TIP or Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership which the U.S. is currently negotiating with the European Union.
 
In other business Joseph Bichlmeier, son of Rotarian Terry Bichlmeier, received a Paul Harris Fellowship.  Joseph recently graduated from Long Beach State University.
 
The date for President Nasrin Moghadasian Demotion Party was announced, it will occur July 17 starting at 6 p.m. Location TBA.
 
Following her commitment to good health, President Nasrin said, "Broccoli inhibits cancer and contains vitamins A and K, helps metabolism as it contains vitamin D, helps fight inflammation, helps the digestive system and is anti-cancerous."