Increasing Rural Broadband Access Will Grow America’s International Trade Presence

U.S. broadband networks are among the best in the world, but many Americans are still without adequate access. Low-income and rural communities lack the proper infrastructure needed for high-speed internet. Nearly a quarter of U.S. households do not have home internet.

This digital divide is detrimental to the economy and America’s international trade presence.

Many rural markets remain untapped because of their lack of connectivity. This is an important issue because rural America produces food and energy exports that are vital to America’s participation in the international trade economy.

Fully connecting rural communities with broadband would boost America’s ability to thrive in this economy. Failing to provide broadband to these communities would seriously hinder America’s ability to participate and compete with other foreign powers.

As American farmers turn to technology to aid in their work, a reliable and high-speed internet connection becomes more important. Farmers use robots, moisture sensors, GPS technology, and aerial images on their land, and this technology necessitates broadband connection.

In order for American farmers to provide the food and energy to consumers at home and abroad, they need access to American broadband networks.

Therefore, TAPP supports efforts to expand broadband access to rural communities across the US.