NEW YORK, Oct. 30 (Xinhua) -- More than 30 U.S. manufacturing groups on Wednesday called on Congress to reopen the federal government without delay as the ongoing shutdown hampers economic activities.
"An open and fully functioning government is essential to the growth of the American economy, the success of manufacturers across the country and the wellbeing of our communities," the manufacturers said in a letter to congressional leaders.
"When the government is shuttered, it stifles our ability to invest in our communities and our people. And it diminishes faith in our institutions," they continued.
The groups warned that the consequences of a government shutdown would slow down the critical safety approvals of products, stall job-creating investments and disrupt supply chains.
"With each passing day, the American people suffer new losses, and businesses remain stuck in neutral," the groups said, urging Congress to reopen the government "without further delay."
The federal government shutdown is entering its fifth week and could soon set an all-time record, with little sign of compromise between the Democratic and Republican parties.
The shutdown will delay federal spending and have a negative effect on the economy, according to a report from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).
It could cost the U.S. economy between 7 billion and 14 billion U.S. dollars, depending on how long it drags on, the CBO estimated. ■
