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AF&PA Congratulates U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick

Urges continued talks with Canada, Mexico and the European Union 

WASHINGTON – American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock released the following statement on Howard Lutnick’s confirmation as United States Secretary of Commerce.

“We congratulate Mr. Lutnick on his confirmation to serve as U.S. Secretary of Commerce. AF&PA members make about 87% of the pulp, paper, paper-based packaging and tissue products made in the U.S., supporting over 900,000 American manufacturing jobs in mostly rural communities across the country.

“It is critical our manufacturing sector achieve unrestricted access to international markets. We look forward to working with Mr. Lutnick to execute a trade agenda that acknowledges our industry’s complex, cross-border supply chains between Mexico and Canada and encourages the EU to recognize the U.S. as among the most responsible suppliers of forest fiber in the world.”

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement through the industry’s sustainability initiative —Better Practices, Better Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products industry accounts for approximately 5% of the total U.S. manufacturing GDP, manufactures about $350 billion in products annually and employs about 925,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of about $65 billion annually and is among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 43 states. Visit AF&PA online at afandpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ForestandPaper