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Dear Senator / Representative:
I have serious concerns about the effects that the Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) could have on some of the poorest people in this hemisphere. I believe that as long as rules are fair, trade can be beneficial to communities by helping promote growth and reduce poverty. But I think the rules in CAFTA will worsen poverty and inequality in Central America. I urge you to vote NO on CAFTA.
Significant portions of Central America's populations -- the majority of whom live in poverty -- depend heavily on agriculture for their livelihoods, but if CAFTA is passed, small farmers in Central America will be unable to compete with US-subsidized agriculture that is dumped on their markets. Many poor Central Americans are ravaged by curable diseases, but CAFTA will limit access to affordable medicines by restricting competition to brand-name pharmaceuticals by generics companies. Central American countries are sorely lacking in public infrastructure, and some are highly indebted, but CAFTA will prohibit these governments from ensuring that foreign investment serves national development goals.
I am not opposed to expanded trade. But a US trade agreement with Central America should take into account the disparities in development and resources between the US and the region, and should allow countries the policy flexibility to place the basic needs of their citizens above those of foreign investors and US agribusiness. CAFTA fails to do this. When CAFTA comes to Congress for a vote, I urge you to vote no.
Thank you for your time.
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