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Congressman says its time to modernize the Cuba trade relationship

An Arkansas Congressman says it’s in the best interest of the US to play a role in Cuba’s economy.

Rick Crawford says the proposed legislation isn’t a big departure from current protocol – but it will make a world of difference.  “How we sort of reintroduce ourselves to the Cubans from an economic perspective,” he says.  “And at the same time, it’s potentially a $2-billion market for the United States and it’ll grow as the economy grows and we’ll lay the footing for even greater market access.”

Under current law Cuba is required to pay for American ag products with cash.

Crawford says we’re no longer in the days of the Cold War and the rules are antiquated.  “It’s 2017,” he says.  “It’s time to recognize that there is a benefit to us engaging in Cuba in a more productive way.  We can shape the future – or we can allow Russia, Iran, China, and others – who don’t have our interests to invest and present and even greater threat to us.”

He says the argument against normalizing trade relations with Cuba doesn’t hold water.  “The argument that is presented is that they have an oppressive regime, they have human rights violations, and currency manipulation, they’re communists, etc.,” he says.  “But so are most of our trading partners.”

Crawford spoke to members for the National Association of Farm Broadcasting members at Washington Watch on Wednesday.

AUDIO: Rick Crawford, Arkansas