Semiconductor Industry Applauds House Passage of Trade Promotion Authority, Urges Senate to Send Legislation to President

by Semiconductor Industry Association

WASHINGTON—June 18, 2015—The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA), representing U.S. leadership in semiconductor manufacturing and design, today released the following statement from president and CEO John Neuffer applauding the House of Representatives for passing Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) and urging the Senate to swiftly approve the House-passed TPA legislation so it can be sent to the President for his signature.

“Today’s vote for TPA is a vote for free trade, growth, and innovation in the tech sector and throughout our economy. After years of being left on the sidelines as our competitors struck deals on free trade agreements, TPA brings the United States back to the table and empowers U.S. negotiators to help write the rules for 21st Century trade.

“As a global industry with an international network of customers, equipment and materials suppliers and R&D providers, the semiconductor industry thrives on free trade. The economic growth, job creation, and unparalleled innovation our industry provides are made possible by free and open access to global markets. TPA paves the way for free trade.

“TPA has the support of President Obama and bipartisan majorities in both the House and Senate. Today’s vote puts TPA one step closer to reaching the finish line. We applaud the House of Representatives for approving this much-needed legislation and urge the Senate to swiftly do the same.”

About SIA

The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) is the voice of the U.S. semiconductor industry, one of America’s top export industries and a key driver of America’s economic strength, national security and global competitiveness. Semiconductors – microchips that control all modern electronics – enable the systems and products we use to work, communicate, travel, entertain, harness energy, treat illness, and make new scientific discoveries. The semiconductor industry directly employs nearly a quarter of a million people in the U.S. In 2014, U.S. semiconductor company sales totaled $173 billion, and semiconductors make the global trillion dollar electronics industry possible. Founded in 1977 by five microelectronics pioneers, SIA unites companies that account for 80 percent of America’s semiconductor production. Through this coalition, SIA seeks to strengthen U.S. leadership of semiconductor design and manufacturing by working with Congress, the Administration and other key industry stakeholders to encourage policies and regulations that fuel innovation, propel business and drive international competition.