Nafta

NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, is an economic and

trade agreement between the US, Canada, and Mexico which gradually

removes tariffs, quotas, and import licenses over a period of time.

This agreement was signed in 1994 and has been supported as well as

criticized. It's effects are realized by the nation as a whole, by

companies, and even by individuals living within these nations. The

full terms of the agreement will be completed in 2008 as the final trade

restrictions are lifted. (de Blij and Muller, 166)

Opposition over the agreement has come from many who believe it

brings environmental and health risks, and negatively impacts both

employment and wages. Supporters argue that the economic growth of

Mexico increases US exports, and that new, higher paying jobs have been

created. (Public Citizen) Analysis of the effects of NAFTA so far show

that while some jobs have been lost, mostly in the textile and apparel

industry, agricultural trade has generated jobs. Also, NAFTA has had a

positive impact on investments and trade. (Zahniser)

Personally, I appreciate the variety of choices and affordable

prices that NAFTA has brought. I believe that helping other Nations

grow economically, like Mexico, will help our economy in the long run.

I