Chrysler calls for speedy trade within North America

Chrysler turning the US government's attention towards gaps in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

Chrysler yesterday (22 May) urged a Senate Finance Committee to approve legislation that will make it easier for the automaker to speed vehicle and parts shipments across North America, reports Detroit News Washington Bureau. William Cook, Chrysler's director for worldwide logistics and customs, elaborated: "Because of the significant volume of trade involved, coupled with the company's reliance on just-in-time inventory management practices, Chrysler's ability to import and export vehicles and parts in an efficient and timely fashion is critical…With demand sky-high for Chrysler products and fierce competition in the auto sector, we cannot afford any production delays." Chrysler also supports better enforcement to block entry of counterfeit auto parts into the US. Cook added that keeping US-Canada and US-Mexico land border commercial ports of entry open throughout the day would help reduce wait times at the border, resulting in "significant" savings in shipping costs for automakers.