Arlington, VA -- EIA President Dave McCurdy praised yesterday’s announcement by the White House that it would ease export restrictions on high-performance computers to Tier 3 countries. 

 McCurdy said,

“We commend President Bush for more than doubling the export control limits on high-performance computers to Tier 3 countries.  The President clearly recognizes the need to keep up with the pace of technological change. What would have been classified as a supercomputer in the 1980’s -- one that would have been used in the design of stealth aircraft -- is now equivalent to one of today’s laptops sold retail for under $2000. 

“Our national security is improved by enabling high tech industries to thrive. We look forward to working together with the Administration to continue to reform outdated and burdensome U.S. export controls. ”

 The Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA) is a national trade organization that includes the full spectrum of U.S. manufacturers, representing more than 80% of the $550 billion electronics industry. The Alliance is a partnership of electronic and high tech associations and companies whose mission is promoting the market development and competitiveness of the U.S. high tech industry through domestic and international policy efforts. EIA, headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, is comprised of more than 2,300 member companies whose products and services range from the smallest electronic components to the most complex systems used by defense, space and industry, including the full range of consumer electronic products. The industry provides more than two million jobs for American workers. For more information, please visit EIA’s website at: www.eia.org.

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