Before the mega-freeze of December 12 and 13 of 1962, Brazil had NO citrus industry and Florida produced 78% of the world's concentrated orange juice. Today, Brazil raises more oranges than Florida, has significant economic advantages in low priced land, labor, and property taxes.

Without protection the 200 year old Florida citrus industry will be placed in jeopardy. The destruction of Florida citrus will not impact just citrus growers, but a loss in agricultural value will adversely effect the tax base of the citrus growing counties which will cause problems for the schools that depend on ad valorem taxation.

In a few short years China will be exporting cars to the US. This will be the end of what was once the most potent engine of American industry. The American auto industry was the envy of the world and the model for production facilities.

Presently the Japanese refuse to allow "Uncle Ben" to sell rice in their country. We need to recognize the national significance of the few industries we have left. Or, watch industry go the way of Television production and computer manufacturing. When American jobs go away, we can watch the end of our consumer based economy also.

Without protection, comparative advantage requires we lower our production costs to match the costs of slave labor, child labor, and forced labor countries.

This Agricultural agreement should be a wake up call for a comprehensive trade policy. We must develop policies that not only promote trade but protect American companies against the dumping supported by the governments of China and Japan to develop "market share."

American jobs and the hard won American standard of living should be encouraged and protected by government and not lowered by corporate interests that seek benefit to their narrow interests.

For an explicit example of this, shop at Wal-Mart and read the label.

Publius