International automakers account for 47% of all vehicles produced in the United States and 55% of new vehicle sales. Additionally, international automakers are responsible for $22 billion in annual vehicle exports: more than 650,000 of our US-built vehicles reach consumers in 135 countries and territories each year. Many of these exports are supported by US free trade agreements.
While these statistics are impressive, there is much more we can do. But that requires a stronger commitment from the Biden administration. Specifically, the president must pursue policies that strengthen American manufacturing and improve trade partnerships with American allies without picking who benefits at home. This is the path to growth in the United States, especially in communities too often left behind.
With the right policies, global automakers will continue to lead the charge towards prosperity for all. Already, more than 500 facilities operated by international automakers dot the American landscape, from Alabama to Ohio to California. Together, these manufacturing, assembly, R&D and other facilities represent nearly $100 billion in investment and, together with their networks of suppliers and dealers, support 2.1 million American jobs and that is not not finished.
Over the past 25 years, the production volume of international car manufacturers has increased by 82%. The upward trajectory can continue, bringing more opportunities to more communities. But the direction over the next quarter century will depend on the decisions the Biden administration makes today.
For example, President Joe Biden and his administration are engaging with international partners on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity. The United States is struggling to stay competitive in a rapidly changing region as other countries negotiate deals that leave the United States on the sidelines. At a minimum, any framework agreement must open up the Indo-Pacific market and create opportunities for American manufacturers to import the materials needed to build in America and export products overseas.
Moreover, it is disappointing to hear comments from US Trade Representative Katherine Tai that “nobody is focused on tariff reductions” at this stage of the negotiations. Reducing tariffs will lower the cost of goods for U.S. consumers and domestic manufacturers, so it should be a top priority from the start.
