CHATTANOOGA—State Representative Yusuf Hakeem has been named to a U.S. committee that will advise the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Rep. Hakeem, along with nine others from across the country, were appointed to IGPAC, the Intergovernmental Policy Advisory Committee (USTR Announces New Intergovernmental Policy Advisory Committee Members | United States Trade Representative). IGPAC provides general policy advice to the United State Trade Representative on issues involving trade that have a significant relationship to the affairs of U.S. state and local governments. It is comprised of members who have expertise in general trade, investment and development issues.
In a press release, U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai said, “This highly qualified group of stakeholders and elected officials represent diverse backgrounds, interests, and priorities and I congratulate them on joining this important committee.” Ambassador Tai added, “The IGPAC is a critical link that ensures USTR’s work is responsive to needs of all people in the United States.” Representative Hakeem shared what he will be working to accomplish: “One of my goals is to see a marked increase in small and medium-sized companies receiving assistance and development strategies for their involvement in international trade. Tennessee, along with other southeastern states, can benefit greatly from access to these opportunities and I’m honored to receive this appointment.”