BARRIERS MUST FALL DOWN IN WORLD'S MARKETPLACE

The global nature of modern commerce demands a more fuller understanding of international trade than in years past, even in those parts of the United States where such concerns seem far removed. Our region is far from an ocean yet, with a burgeoning port authority sanctioned by Cape Girardeau and Scott counties, a seaport is virtually at our doorstep. Thus, our interest in trade talks launched in distant locales Washington, Mexico City, Geneva can't be viewed at remote. World trade agreements hit close to home.

We believe President Bush is on the right track in trying to prescribe a level playing field for international trade. The Bush administration, which is pushing for a free-trade accord with Mexico while also negotiating a General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade pact with almost 100 nations, wants equity in the rules. Congress has recently done its part by approving "fast track" authority to the administration for negotiating trade agreements; Sen. John Danforth, a Missourian with an expertise in international trade, called passage of this measure a "great day for our country."

U.S. Rep. Bill Emerson, also a supporter of "fast track" procedures, makes a good point in voicing confidence for America's chances in a more wide-open marketplace. If we believe that U.S. farmers can outproduce their counterparts from any other nation, balanced conditions in global commerce are all that are needed for American agricultural interests to excel. We can bet on ourselves and, if all things are equal, it should be a sure bet. If nations continue to erect barriers in commerce, free trade will remain a dream.

We support efforts of the administration, Congress and trade negotiators to tear down the barriers that prevent fair competition in the world marketplace. If we believe in our own abilities, and our own sense of fairness, such restraints should be viewed as detrimental.