Press Release

U.S. Department of Commerce Video
How Commerce Promotes Freedom and Democracy

Commerce and freedom go hand-in-hand. When citizens are free to choose where to work, to study, and to live, they are more prosperous and productive. But without jobs, opportunity and prosperity—there is no hope for a brighter future.

That’s why the U.S. Department of Commerce is working to expand economic opportunities around the world.

In Iraq and Afghanistan, our Reconstruction Task Forces have helped rebuild infrastructure, encourage foreign investment and create jobs to help get these countries back on their feet.

In places like the Republic of Georgia, where violence has threatened stability and economic growth, we are encouraging reforms, committing our resources and helping bring U.S. companies into the market.

And here in our own neighborhood we’ve worked to create a more competitive Western Hemisphere, opening markets and encouraging commerce from Chile to Central America.

We’ve applauded Colombia’s tremendous progress, and have worked to tear down trade barriers so American products can compete there.

And in Cuba, where a dictator’s grip on the people and the economy has held back a country for half a century, we are advocating change.

At the U.S. Department of Commerce, we know that Trade and democracy are essential to expanding freedom and prosperity around the world.

And freedom and prosperity help foster hope for a better tomorrow.