The following statement is attributed to Michael Petricone, senior vice president, government and regulatory affairs, Consumer Technology Association (CTA), regarding the announcement of a bilateral trade deal between the United States and Mexico:

“A deal that encourages free trade between our countries certainly is welcome. But if President Trump really wants a better deal than NAFTA, an agreement must support our country’s technology leadership – the key to U.S. economic growth and job creation. Specifically, a new accord must do four things:

1. Reduce barriers to digital trade, such as eliminating forced data localization and tariffs on digital content;
2. Protect intellectual property rights and innovation, with a balanced copyright approach including fair use and intermediary liability protections;
3. Eliminate technical barriers to trade through an open and aligned regulatory process; and
4. Recognize parity in rules of origin, which supports American industries, supply chains and workers.

“We look forward to learning more about the details of the potential agreement.”