A delegation from the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) met with PESA Executives at a trade policy roundtable co-hosted by PESA and the Asia Society. Elizabeth Erin Walsh, Assistant Secretary and Director General for Global Market led DOC’s delegation. The objective of the roundtable was to discuss policies and programs which could increase U.S. oil and gas industry’s exports to Asia.
Industry was also able to share with DOC its concerns with the global steel/aluminum tariffs and the ongoing U.S-China trade debate. Attendees advised Assistant Secretary Walsh that while the steel/aluminum tariffs may help domestic manufacturers in the short-term, it would create detrimental impact across the oil and natural gas industry. While overcapacity and subsidies need to be addressed, industry attendees said mechanisms existed under current trade laws to address the unfair trade practices.
PESA is working with other trade associations to minimize the impact of the steel/aluminum tariffs. The PESA International Trade Policy Subcommittee oversees PESA’s involvement in global trade issues. If you have any questions, please contact PESA Director Public Policy Jean Gould.
