Representatives Adrian Smith of Nebraska and Carol Miller of West Virginia have spearheaded an initiative involving 41 other members of Congress. They have addressed a letter to key figures in the Trump administration, namely U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick. The correspondence commends the administration’s efforts in trade negotiations while highlighting specific challenges faced by American service providers and innovators in digital industries due to South Korean policies.
The letter urges the administration to tackle barriers that hinder U.S. companies operating in South Korea. It emphasizes the need for a level playing field for American exporters, which could enhance supply chains and bilateral investments, ultimately benefiting American industry, consumers, and workers.
A significant concern raised is related to proposed legislation by the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) under the Lee Jae-myung government. This legislation allegedly imposes stringent regulatory requirements on U.S. digital companies, mirroring Europe’s Digital Markets Act. The letter argues these standards aim to undermine innovative business models and put successful American companies at a disadvantage.
Furthermore, it highlights issues with Korea’s competition law enforcement practices, suggesting they are used for protectionist purposes that lead to excessive investigations and penalties against U.S. businesses.
Joining Representatives Smith and Miller in this effort are several other lawmakers including Reps. Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Michael Baumgartner (R-WA), Aaron Bean (R-FL), among others.
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