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Strengthening America’s Manufacturing: The Opportunity Puerto Rico Campaign

In a bold move aimed at enhancing the stability of U.S. manufacturing, a coalition of businesses has formally launched the Opportunity Puerto Rico campaign. This initiative seeks to elevate Puerto Rico’s role in the U.S. economy, particularly within the manufacturing sector. As concerns grow regarding the dependency on foreign supply chains, especially in the biomedical field, industry leaders recognize the strategic importance of bolstering this sector on the Island.

A Six-Figure Commitment

The newly unveiled campaign comes with a financial commitment of six figures, intended to educate both the public and lawmakers about Puerto Rico's significant contributions to the U.S. economy. By advocating for pro-growth policies, the coalition aims to amplify the Island’s manufacturing capabilities, crucial in ensuring a reliable biomedical supply chain for the United States. The campaign was launched in a climate of increasing apprehension about supply chain vulnerabilities, making it an urgent and essential effort.

The Power of Stories

Central to the campaign's strategy is its digital platform, OpportunityPuertoRico.org, featuring video testimonials from local business owners. These testimonials tell powerful stories about the advantages of operating in Puerto Rico and the urgent need to bolster the Island's economy as part of a national strategy to revive American manufacturing. Notable voices from the business sector, such as Rick Straw, CEO of PACIV, emphasize the call to action for Congress and the President. Straw noted the need to prioritize Puerto Rico as a key player in the U.S. manufacturing comeback.

Tom Forester, President and CEO of CRB Caribe, reinforces this sentiment, stating, “We have to make the U.S. and Puerto Rico a manufacturing powerhouse.” This message resonates with the campaign's goal to not only enhance local operations but also elevate Puerto Rico's standing within the broader national manufacturing ecosystem.

A Strategic Asset

Gustavo Hermida, President and Founder of CIC Construction Group, highlights the competitive advantages that Puerto Rico brings to the manufacturing table: “Our skilled and passionate workforce combined with our strategic location makes the Island an ideal partner.” This sentiment reflects a growing recognition of Puerto Rico's potential, particularly given its historical significance to the United States and its evolving role as a biomedical manufacturing hub.

As James Bowers, spokesperson for Opportunity Puerto Rico, articulated, the Island has blossomed significantly in recent years. Over a century of integration into the U.S. has led to Puerto Rico developing an established ecosystem capable of supporting diverse manufacturing needs. With Congress reviewing the federal tax code, there is an increased focus on fostering opportunities to incentivize onshoring—moves aimed at reducing the American economy's reliance on international suppliers, especially from regions that may pose geopolitical risks.

Addressing Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

Recent discussions among lawmakers underline the critical nature of the U.S. dependence on foreign sources for essential medical supplies. With hostile nations covering a substantial portion of the pharmaceutical ingredient market, American patient health is increasingly vulnerable. Therefore, initiatives like Opportunity Puerto Rico align well with national interests to protect and enhance domestic production capabilities. This campaign not only benefits Puerto Rican job creators but also serves to attract further investment in U.S. states, reinforcing a secure and resilient supply chain.

Closing Thoughts

The Opportunity Puerto Rico campaign symbolizes a proactive approach to revitalizing U.S. manufacturing through strategic partnership with Puerto Rico. By prioritizing the Island's economic strengthening, supporters advocate for a balanced and secure future where American jobs can thrive, and the resilience of the healthcare supply chain can be assured. As the manufacturing landscape evolves, initiatives such as this underscore the importance of proactive, innovative strategies to bolster local and national economies.

For more in-depth information, visit OpportunityPuertoRico.org.

About Opportunity Puerto Rico

This coalition comprises free-market advocates and organizations dedicated to fortifying the Puerto Rican economy. They believe enhancing economic opportunities on the Island will also significantly benefit the broader United States economy.