Jamieson Greer Calls for "Pragmatic" Trade Policy

Jamieson Greer, President Trump’s nominee for U.S. Trade Representative, signaled a forceful approach to trade policy in his Senate Finance Committee confirmation hearing, emphasizing reciprocity, domestic production, and national security concerns. If confirmed, Greer is expected to reshape U.S. trade strategy with a strong emphasis on reducing trade deficits, enforcing trade agreements, and leveraging tariffs as a tool for economic and security objectives.

Greer, who previously served as chief of staff at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) during the Trump administration, framed his approach as “pragmatic,” focused on securing better terms for U.S. producers while addressing economic vulnerabilities. “If the United States does not have a robust manufacturing base and innovation economy, it will have little in the way of hard power to deter conflict and protect Americans,” he told senators. He underscored the need to restructure the international trading system to prioritize U.S. interests, warning that the window for such reform is narrowing.

Focus on Trade Deficits and Reciprocity

Echoing concerns long held by President Trump, Greer emphasized his intent to tackle persistent trade imbalances. He indicated that countries maintaining large trade surpluses with the United States—specifically citing Vietnam—should expect demands for greater reciprocity in market access if they wish to retain U.S. trade privileges. “In short order, the Administration will begin approaching countries that have huge trade imbalances with the United States to demand reciprocity,” Greer stated.

While advocating for stronger enforcement measures, he also supported expanding market opportunities for U.S. exporters, referencing President Trump’s America First Trade Policy memo, which calls for exploring new free trade and sectoral agreements.

USMCA Review and Potential Policy Shifts

Among Greer’s early priorities will be a review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which he helped negotiate. He identified areas for potential revision, particularly the rules of origin for autos and aerospace, to prevent third-party countries from benefitting without contributing significantly to North American production. He also suggested considering restrictions on content from “countries of concern,” a term that could encompass China.

Greer stressed the importance of ensuring compliance with market access provisions, highlighting ongoing disputes over U.S. access to Canada’s dairy market and Mexico’s energy sector. His remarks suggest a willingness to take a tougher stance on enforcement, possibly escalating trade actions if necessary.

Tariffs as Leverage for National Security

Greer also defended President Trump’s recent threat to impose 25 percent tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico, linking the measure to the flow of fentanyl across U.S. borders. While the tariffs are currently on hold for 30 days, he indicated that their suspension is contingent on both countries taking sufficient action to curb the crisis. His comments suggest that tariffs could remain a key tool of the administration’s broader trade and security strategy.

Outlook for Confirmation

Greer’s confirmation is expected to face scrutiny from lawmakers wary of protectionist measures, though Republican support appears strong. His testimony reinforced his alignment with Trump’s economic policies, particularly in leveraging trade policy as a means to bolster domestic industry and national security.

If confirmed, Greer will take charge of an ambitious trade agenda that seeks to recalibrate global commerce in favor of U.S. interests—an approach that could lead to heightened tensions with major trading partners.