International Herald Tribune Editorial - Blocking Mexican trucks

International Herald Tribune Editorial - Blocking Mexican trucks
Copyright bhy THe International Herald Tribune
Published: September 12, 2007


One way the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement was supposed to encourage free trade was by allowing long-haul trucks from Canada, Mexico and the United States to deliver goods throughout the three countries. Unfortunately, the Teamsters union, the Sierra Club and their allies in Congress are still working to keep Mexican trucks out.

The Teamsters and their environmental allies claim that the trucks aren't safe and are dirty. A new pilot program, however, would require that any Mexican trucks approved for entry into the U.S. be inspected for safety every three months. Environmental regulations that apply to U.S. trucks would also apply to Mexican trucks.

That's not enough to satisfy the Teamsters, which, we suspect, are just trying to stave off the competition. And it's not been enough for the Sierra Club.

That stubbornness is counterproductive. Keeping Mexican trucks out only keeps transport costs higher. It sends Mexico the message that the U.S. doesn't stand by its commitments, and it reinforces suspicions that when it comes to free trade, the U.S. only likes it one way.

Congress seems determined to block progress. On Tuesday, the Senate approved an amendment that would deny financing for the pilot program next year. The House has already approved the cutoff.

It is of utmost importance to ensure the safety of Mexican trucks - or any trucks - driving on U.S. highways. But guaranteeing highway safety does not require undermining the nation's free trade agreements or its relationship with Mexico. It is time for Congress to let Mexican trucks through.