US poultry sector urges Congress to grant Russia normal trade relations

US-RUSSIAN trade coalition has urged Congress to implement permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) between the countries with support from over 500 organisations including the National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation and US Poultry & Egg Association.

As Russia entered the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in August 2012, the coalition wishes Congress to repeal the Jackson-Vanik amendment to the Trade Act of 1974, which was introduced to implore the Soviet Union to allow the emigration of Soviet Jews, prisoners of conscience, and victims of religious persecution.

"PNTR will ensure that poultry companies can take full advantage of new business opportunities, that Russia's commitments in the WTO are enforced and that American businesses are on an equal playing field in the Russian market," said the coalition statement.