WASHINGTON, DC - The electronics industry's leading trade group said creating a more innovative and competitive environment for U.S. high-tech companies heads its public policy agenda this year.

President and CEO Dave McCurdy said the Electronics Industries Alliance's top priorities include trade with China, RFID and tax relief.

"EIA's broad goal in 2005 is to work with the Bush Administration and the 109th Congress to implement a technology-oriented economic agenda that can allow the U.S. high-tech industry to compete favorably in the global economy," said EIA board of governors chairman Ron Turner.

"The technology agenda needs to be a top priority for the country now if we want to remain competitive, improve the economy, create job growth, and maintain an educated workforce," Turner said.

McCurdy, a former U.S. Representative, said zero tariffs for the electronics and high-tech sectors; cyber security; technology and environmental issues such as electronic products recycling are also high on the agenda for 2005.

EIA will also work with broader coalitions on economic matters and math and science education.

The EIA's annual policy agenda is decided at a three-day meeting of its membership each January. The trade group's board then ratifies the priorities.

For a summary of the meeting click here.