CEA Applauds Trade Bill Signing.

Bill Authorizes Trade Relations with Vietnam

ARLINGTON, Va. -- Consumer Electronics Association[R] President and CEO Gary Shapiro issued the following statement regarding legislation signed by President Bush yesterday granting Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) to Vietnam and extending other major trade preference programs:

"I congratulate President Bush and members of Congress for approving this important piece of trade legislation, which not only benefits the American consumer, but also creates economic opportunity between our country and Vietnam. Having been to Vietnam recently I believe this is significant for the consumer electronics industry, as well as for all industries seeking a competitive edge with an important World Trade Organization (WTO) partner.

"With this legislation, consumers and industries alike can benefit from Vietnam's membership in the WTO. Moreover, should Vietnam join the Information Technology Agreement (ITA), significant tariff elimination in this crucial sector of the economy will result. As most information technology products already enter the United States duty-free, this will establish a more balanced, reciprocal trade relationship."

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,100 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, digital imaging, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA's members account for more than $125 billion in annual sales. CEA's resources are available online at www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry.

CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Defining Tomorrow's Technology. All profits from CES are reinvested into industry services, including technical training and education, industry promotion, engineering standards development, market research and legislative advocacy.

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