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The FAS programs have changed traditional overseas buying 

 habits, helped overcome foreign trade barriers, and laid the 

 foundation for future export gains in new markets for U.S. wood 

 products in a broad range of end uses. They have united our 

 industry to work together in a single export program, which in 

 itself is a very unique achievement. 



Why has all this happened? Simple because the programs 

 work. They are cost effective. They incorporate a sophisticated 

 management system which includes strategic planning and program 

 evaluation. 



The FAS programs are a model of how the best talents of 

 government and the private sector can work together to 

 effectively compete in the international environment. These 

 programs should not only be supported, but expanded and 

 duplicated in other areas of government. It is unfortunate that 

 they have obviously been misunderstood and on that basis received 

 undue criticism and negative press which threatens to not only 

 tarnish their image, but also to undo their effectiveness. 



On behalf of our industry I would like to thank you, Mr. 

 Chairmen, and your fellow committee members, for your strong 

 support of FAS programs and, through these hearings, your 

 commitment to listen and work with us to make these programs 

 effective. We would urge the Secretary of Agricultural and his 



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