AFMA's Batson named to U.S. trade advisory panel
By Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, January 14, 2002
HIGH POINT — Russell Batson, the American Furniture Manufacturers Assn.'s vice president for government affairs, has been named to the U.S. Commerce Department's principal advisory committee for trade policy.
The Industry Sector Advisory Council helps U.S. trade authorities identify and eliminate foreign trade practices that place U.S. manufacturers at a disadvantage.
Batson will represent furniture manufacturers on the ISAC and will work for the removal of burdensome customs procedures, rules of origin, labeling requirements and paperwork that impede the flow of U.S. furniture into foreign markets.
Secretary of Commerce Donald L. Evans and U.S. Trade Representative Robert B. Zoellick, who together made the appointment, cited Batson's knowledge of the furniture industry and his familiarity with U.S. trade law.
Batson has worked in AFMA's Washington office since 1994. A graduate of the University of Virginia and its law school, he previously was a legislative aide to a U.S. congressman.
Andy Counts, AFMA executive vice president, said the appointment will greatly benefit AFMA members.
"This will help to advance AFMA's fair trade policy," he said. "We recognize that globalization creates both opportunities and potential dislocations for AFMA companies. Competitiveness of American manufacturers requires both fewer tax and regulatory burdens here at home and more aggressive enforcement of trade laws to pry open foreign markets."
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