Who is Robert Lighthizer?
Robert Lighthizer, a seasoned trade negotiator and former United States Trade Representative (USTR), has recently published a book titled “No Such Thing as Free Trade.” The Spanish version, “Robert Lighthizer y el Comercio Justo,” was discussed at an event hosted by ITAM, with comments from its rector, Arturo Fernández, and economist Ana Aguilar of the Consejo Mexicano de Negocios.
Lighthizer’s Central Argument
Lighthizer argues that trade should not only be free but also fair, focusing on its impact on employment and productive chains. He believes that while trade is essential, it must also consider its effects on the population in terms of jobs and productive linkages.
The Transition to the T-MEC
A significant portion of Lighthizer’s book discusses the negotiation of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which evolved into the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (T-MEC). He highlights the benefits of increased regional content for all three countries due to the new agreement.
Addressing Job Losses and Desindustrialization
Lighthizer is particularly concerned about job losses and desindustrialization in the United States, especially in strategic sectors with high technological content due to Chinese competition. He believes that the US must disengage from the Chinese economy in these strategic and high-tech sectors to maintain its technological and productive capabilities, worker quality of life, and hegemonic role in the global economy.
The Path to Desacoplamiento
Lighthizer proposes desacoplamiento, or reducing trade and technological dependence on China. He suggests that allied countries, including Mexico, should play a role in achieving this goal. Mexico’s proximity, shared infrastructure, intense commercial relations, and industrial capacity make it an ideal candidate for increased participation in sectors such as semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, electronics, aerospace, data, and telecommunications.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Robert Lighthizer? A former United States Trade Representative with extensive experience in trade negotiations.
- What is Lighthizer’s central argument? Trade should be fair, not just free, considering its impact on employment and productive linkages.
- What is the T-MEC? The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which evolved from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
- What concerns Lighthizer about the US economy? Job losses and desindustrialization, particularly in strategic sectors with high technological content due to Chinese competition.
- What is Lighthizer’s proposed solution? Desacoplamiento, or reducing trade and technological dependence on China, with Mexico playing a significant role in key sectors.
