Statement on USTR Michael Froman’s Trade Objectives Speech

Washington, D.C. — Today, The Internet Association’s President and CEO Michael Beckerman issued the following statement supporting yesterday’s remarks by U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Froman at the Center for American Progress:

“The Internet Association welcomes Ambassador Froman’s remarks on value-driven trade policy. USTR’s recognition that trade policy must include copyright protections with limitations and exceptions, such as fair use, is an important step to modernizing trade agreements.

“We are encouraged by Ambassador Froman’s acknowledgement that the Internet’s collaborative platform — one that permits users to freely access information, engage seamlessly with interactive websites, and generate content — relies on safe harbors and other protections for online service providers. Embracing policies that facilitate digital trade and eliminate barriers to the the free flow of information across borders are critical to future economic growth and job creation across the globe.

“The Internet Association will continue the dialogue with USTR on this important issue.”

The Internet Association, the unified voice of the Internet economy, represents the interests of the leading Internet companies including Airbnb, Amazon, AOL, eBay, Expedia, Facebook, Gilt, Google, IAC, LinkedIn, Lyft, Monster Worldwide, Netflix, Practice Fusion, Rackspace, reddit, Salesforce.com, SurveyMonkey, TripAdvisor, Twitter, Uber Technologies, Inc., Yelp, Yahoo!, and Zynga. The Internet Association is dedicated to advancing public policy solutions to strengthen and protect Internet freedom, foster innovation and economic growth, and empower users. www.internetassociation.org.

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