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ATPA Renewal: Background and Issues [March 9, 2011]
"The Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) extends duty-free treatment to certain U.S. imports that meet domestic content and other requirements from designated countries in the Andean region. The purpose of ATPA is to promote economic growth in the Andean region and to encourage a shift away from dependence on illegal drugs by supporting legitimate economic activities. [...] The trade effects of ATPA on the U.S. economy have been minimal because the amount of U.S. trade with the Andean region is low. The value of duty-free U.S. imports under ATPA accounts for about 0.8% of total U.S. imports, or 0.1% of the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP). Approximately 90% of U.S. imports from ATPA countries enter duty-free under various trade preference programs or through normal trade relations. Duty-free imports under ATPA account for 49.9% of total U.S. imports from ATPA countries. Leading U.S. ATPA imports in 2010 were crude petroleum oil, cut flowers, petroleum-oil products (other than crude), refined copper, tshirts and similar apparel, and fish and caviar products. The 112th Congress may reevaluate the extension of ATPA trade preferences for Ecuador and Colombia. Policymakers may also consider broader reform of U.S. trade preference programs, including the Generalized System of Preferences. Some Members of Congress maintain that if ATPA trade preferences are not extended, the United States and the Andean countries risk losing some of the economic progress that has been achieved over the 18-year life of the program. Supporters of ATPA argue that the program should continue to reinforce the U.S. commitment to the 'alternative development' counternarcotics strategy. Critics of ATPA argue that unilateral trade programs are ineffective; that the ATPA has forced U.S. producers to compete with lowercost Andean imports; and that, in cases such as Bolivia and Ecuador, trade preferences should not be extended to countries that do not support U.S. foreign and trade policies.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2011-03-09
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U.S.-Mexico Economic Relations: Trends, Issues, and Implications [March 31, 2010]
"Mexico has a population of about 111 million people, making it the most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world and the third-most populous country in the Western Hemisphere. Based on a gross domestic product (GDP) of $875 billion in 2009 (about 6% of U.S. GDP), Mexico has a free market economy with a strong export sector. Economic conditions in Mexico are important to the United States because of the proximity of Mexico to the United States, the close trade and investment interactions, and other social and political issues that are affected by the economic relationship between the two countries. The United States and Mexico have strong economic ties through the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which has been in effect since 1994. In terms of total trade, Mexico is the United States' third-largest trading partner, while the United States ranks first among Mexico's trading partners. In U.S. imports, Mexico ranks third among U.S. trading partners, after China and Canada, while in exports Mexico ranks second, after Canada. The United States is the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mexico. These links are critical to many U.S. industries and border communities."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2010-03-31
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U.S.-Mexico Economic Relations: Trends, Issues, and Implications [November 9, 2010]
"The current trade issue of most concern to Members of Congress involves NAFTA [North American Free Trade Agreement] trucking provisions. Under NAFTA, Mexican commercial trucks were to have been given full access throughout the United States by 2000 but the United States did not implement these provisions due to alleged safety concerns. Mexico objected and a NAFTA dispute resolution panel supported Mexico's position in 2001. In 2009, the Mexican government began imposing retaliatory tariffs on certain U.S. products with a value of $2.4 billion in exports to Mexico. Numerous Members of Congress continue to oppose the implementation of the trucking provisions because they are concerned about the safety of Mexican trucks in the United States, while others support a resolution to the issue. They argue that Mexico's retaliatory tariffs are having strong negative effects on local U.S. industries and affecting U.S. jobs, especially in the agricultural sectors. They also argue that the United States is in violation of NAFTA by not implementing these provisions. Also of interest to many policymakers are the economic disparity between the two countries and migration issues […]. President Obama underscored his commitment to comprehensive immigration reform in the United States while President Calderón stated that his administration was committed to creating more job and educational opportunities in Mexico."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2010-11-09
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Trade Preferences: Economic Issues and Policy Options [September 24, 2010]
"Since 1974, Congress has created multiple trade preference programs designed to foster economic growth, reform, and development in less developed countries. These programs give temporary, non-reciprocal, duty-free U.S. market access to select exports of eligible countries. Congress conducts regular oversight of these programs, repeatedly revising and extending them. Two major issues face the 111th Congress: (1) the expiration of two preference programs by December 31, 2010; and (2) possible legislative action on broader reform of the preference programs based on comprehensive reviews in hearings held in both the House and the Senate earlier in this Congress. Congress established five trade preference programs. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) applies to developing countries as a whole. In addition, there are four regional programs established in the Andean Trade Preference Act (APTA), the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA); the Caribbean Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA), the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and the Haitian Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement (HOPE) Act. Both the GSP and the ATPA are scheduled to expire on December 31, 2010."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Jones, Vivian Catherine; Hornbeck, J. F. (John F.); Villarreal, M. Angeles
2010-09-24
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Mexican Economy after the Global Financial Crisis [September 16, 2010]
"The state of Mexico's economy is important for U.S. policymakers for many reasons, most significantly because a prosperous and democratic neighboring country is in the best interest of the United States. The two countries have strong economic, political, and social ties, which have direct policy implications related to bilateral trade, economic competitiveness, migration, and border security. In May 2010, President Barack Obama hosted Mexican President Felipe Calderón at a meeting in the White House in which the two leaders discussed key issues affecting the two countries. They agreed to continue and reinforce cooperation on creating jobs, promoting economic recovery and expansion, and encouraging inclusive prosperity across all levels of society in both countries. The 111th Congress is likely to maintain an active interest in Mexico on issues related to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and other trade issues, economic conditions in Mexico, migration, border security issues, and counter-narcotics."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2010-09-16
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Mexican Economy After the Global Financial Crisis [September 9, 2010]
"The state of Mexico's economy is important for U.S. policymakers for many reasons, most significantly because a prosperous and democratic neighboring country is in the best interest of the United States. The two countries have strong economic, political, and social ties, which have direct policy implications related to bilateral trade, economic competitiveness, migration, and border security. In May 2010, President Barack Obama hosted Mexican President Felipe Calderón at a meeting in the White House in which the two leaders discussed key issues affecting the two countries. They agreed to continue and reinforce cooperation on creating jobs, promoting economic recovery and expansion, and encouraging inclusive prosperity across all levels of society in both countries. The 111th Congress is likely to maintain an active interest in Mexico on issues related to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and other trade issues, economic conditions in Mexico, migration, border security issues, and counter-narcotics. The global financial crisis that began in 2008 and the U.S. economic downturn had strong adverse effects on the Mexican economy, largely due to its economic ties and dependence on the U.S. market. Mexico's gross domestic product (GDP) contracted by 6.6% in 2009, the sharpest decline of any Latin American economy. Mexico's reliance on the United States as an export market and the relative importance of exports to its overall economic performance make it highly susceptible to fluctuations in the U.S. economy. Most other Latin American countries are not as dependent on the United States as an export market. Economic reforms over the past 20 years and the government's responses to the effects of the global financial crisis have helped Mexico weather the economic downturn and improve conditions in 2010. However, sustained economic recovery will likely depend on the U.S. economic recovery and the ability to sustain this growth."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2010-09-09
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NAFTA and the Mexican Economy
"The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), in effect since January 1994, plays a very strong role in the bilateral economic relationship between Mexico and the United States. The two countries are also closely tied in areas not directly related to trade and investment such as security, environmental, migration, and health issues. The effects of NAFTA on Mexico and the Mexican economic situation have impacts on U.S. economic and political interests. A number of policymakers have raised the issue of revisiting NAFTA and renegotiating parts of the agreement. Some important factors in evaluating NAFTA include the effects of the agreement on Mexico and how these relate to U.S.-Mexico economic relations. In the 111th Congress, major issues of concern are related to U.S.-Mexico trade issues, economic conditions in Mexico, the effect of NAFTA on the United States and Mexico, and Mexican migrant workers in the United States."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2010-06-03
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U.S.-Mexico Economic Relations: Trends, Issues, and Implications [May 25, 2005]
"The bilateral economic relationship with Mexico is among the most important for the United States. The most significant feature of the relationship is the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which has been in effect since 1994. In bilateral trade, Mexico is the United States' second most important trading partner, while the United States is Mexico's most important trading partner. In U.S. imports, Mexico ranks third among U.S. trading partners, after Canada and China, while in exports Mexico ranks second, after Canada. The United States is the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mexico. These links are critical to many U.S. industries and border communities."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2005-05-25
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U.S.-Mexico Economic Relations: Trends, Issues, and Implications [Updated July 11, 2005]
"The overall effect of NAFTA on the U.S. economy has been relatively small, primarily because two-way trade with Mexico amounts to less than three percent of U.S. GDP. The most significant trade issues that the United States and Mexico are focusing on in 2005 include agricultural products, the trucking industry, and rules of origin. Over the last decade, the economic relationship between the United States and Mexico has strengthened significantly. The two countries continue to cooperate on issues of mutual concern. On March 23, 2005, President Bush met with President Fox and Prime Minister Martin of Canada to discuss issues related to North American trade, immigration and defense. After the meeting, the three leaders announced the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America (SPP) in which they seek to establish a cooperative approach to advance their common security and prosperity; develop a common security strategy; and promote economic growth, competitiveness, and quality of life. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2005-07-11
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U.S.-Mexico Economic Relations: Trends, Issues and Implications [Updated June 3, 2008]
"Mexico has a population of about 109 million people making it the most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world and the third most populous country in the Western Hemisphere. Based on a gross domestic product (GDP) of $893 billion in 2007 (about 6% of U.S. GDP), Mexico has a free market economy with a strong export sector. Economic conditions in Mexico are important to the United States because of the proximity of Mexico to the United States, the close trade and investment interactions, and other social and political issues that are affected by the economic relationship between the two countries. The United States and Mexico have strong economic ties. An important feature of the relationship is the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which has been in effect since 1994. In terms of total trade, Mexico is the United States' third largest trading partner, while the United States ranks first among Mexico's trading partners. In U.S. imports, Mexico ranks third among U.S. trading partners, after China and Canada, while in exports Mexico ranks second, after Canada. The United States is the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mexico. These links are critical to many U.S. industries and border communities."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2008-06-03
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Panama-U.S. Relations [Updated March 26, 2001]
"The December 20, 1989, U.S. military intervention in Panama, known as Operation Just Cause, heralded a new period in U.S.-Panamanian relations. In the aftermath of the intervention, U.S. policymakers immediately faced a new range of challenges including assistance for economic recovery, support for the development of a civilian police force, cooperation with the new government on counter-narcotics measures, and support for fragile democratic institutions. Panama has made abundant progress in all these areas, although the country still faces challenges. U.S. policymakers maintain an active concern about these issues because of continued U.S. interests in Panama, particularly the Panama Canal, which continues to be important to the United States for its commercial value. The Panamanian President's popularity fell significantly during the first year of her administration but improved in the latter part of 2000. A December 2000 public opinion poll showed an overall approval rating of 62%. However, many analysts believe that it will be difficult for President Moscoso to sustain her popularity because of sluggish economic growth and the administration's recent increases in electricity and telecommunications rates. The rate increases, which occurred in January 2001, resulted in violent street protests in the capital and led to many arrests. The political difficulties the president is facing may make it unlikely for her to gain legislative approval of proposed tax and social security reform measures she is proposing in March 2001. These measures are part of an agreement with the IMF that had been earlier scheduled for 2000. Without these reforms, the government will have difficulty meeting its fiscal and debt reduction targets or its public investment goals."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Villarreal, M. Angeles
2001-03-26
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Boosting U.S. Exports: Selected Issues for Congress [July 21, 2011]
"For many years, the U.S. government has played an active role in promoting U.S. commercial exports of goods and services by administering various forms of export assistance through federal government agencies. Congress has had a long-standing interest in the effectiveness and efficiency of federal export promotion activities and may exercise export promotion authority in a number of ways, including through oversight, authorization, and funding roles. […] Thus, it is argued that efforts to ensure foreign compliance with existing trade agreements and the negotiation of new FTAs [Free Trade Agreements] should be part of a strategy to boost U.S. exports. Others argue that more can be done to address U.S. barriers to exports, such as U.S. export controls on dual-use products, which some contend may be too restrictive and may put U.S. exporters at a disadvantage vis-à-vis foreign competitors. Finally, many argue that greater efforts should be made to induce countries with high savings and relatively low consumption and that are heavily dependent on exporting for their economic growth to implement policies that would make private consumption the engine of future economic growth, which would enhance their demand for U.S. goods and services. The NEI [National Export Initiative] also has drawn greater attention to whether the trade policy structure and organization of the federal government is suited to boosting U.S. exports and supporting U.S. jobs effectively and efficiently."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles; Morrison, Wayne M.; Fergusson, Ian F. . . .
2011-07-21
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U.S. Government Agencies Involved in Export Promotion: Overview and Issues for Congress [May 1, 2012]
"This report provides an overview of the federal agencies that participate in U.S. export promotion efforts and the issues that they raise for Congress. It proceeds first by discussing the coordination, budgets, and functions of federal government agencies involved in promoting exports. Second, the report provides an overview of the missions and activities of key federal government agencies that support exports. The third section of the report discusses agency-related issues for Congress. The report concludes with a summary of legislation introduced in the 112th Congress related to export promotion. While this report focuses on the role of the federal government in promoting exports, it is important to acknowledge that state and local governments, as well as businesses, have an important role in promoting exports."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Akhtar, Shayerah Ilias; Hanrahan, Charles; Villarreal, M. Angeles
2012-05-01
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Andean-U.S. Free-Trade Agreement Negotiations [Updated September 30, 2005]
"In November 2003, the Administration notified Congress that it intended to begin negotiations on a free-trade agreement (FTA) with Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia. The notification said that an FTA would reduce and eliminate foreign barriers to trade and investment and would support democracy and fight drug activity in the Andean region. The Andean governments wanted to ensure access to the U.S. market, especially since their current trade preferences will terminate at the end of 2006. In the United States, the business community strongly supports the trade agreement, labor opposes it, and agriculture is split. The first round of negotiations was held with Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador (with Bolivia participating as an observer) in Cartagena, Colombia, in May 2004. Twelve rounds have been held thus far. The latest round was held in Cartagena, Colombia on September 19-23, 2005. Reports suggest that progress was made and that negotiators expect to conclude the agreement by the end of 2005. The next round, scheduled in mid-October in Washington, D.C., is expected to be the final round of negotiations and the final agreement is expected to be concluded in November. The Cartagena talks drew an estimated 7,000 protestors while Ecuador and Peru also faced strong protests. Of note, after the negotiations Ecuador announced that its entry into the agreement would be delayed. In the last few months, Ecuador and Bolivia have had sudden changes in their presidencies."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2005-09-30
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Trade Preferences: Economic Issues and Policy Options [February 24, 2011]
"Since 1974, Congress has created multiple trade preference programs designed to foster economic growth and development in less developed countries. These programs give temporary, non-reciprocal, duty-free U.S. market access to select exports of eligible countries. Congress conducts regular oversight of these programs, often revising and extending them. The 112th Congress may consider two major issues relating to trade preference programs: (1) the expiration of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) on December 31, 2010; and (2) continued extension of the Andean Trade Preference Act beyond February 12, 2010. The 112th Congress may also consider broader reform of the preference programs based on comprehensive reviews in hearings held in both the House and the Senate in the 111th Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles; Hornbeck, J. F. (John F.); Jones, Vivian Catherine
2011-02-24
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Trade Preferences: Economic Issues and Policy Options [November 14, 2012]
"Since 1974, Congress has created multiple trade preference programs designed to foster economic growth, reform, and development in less developed countries. These programs give temporary, non-reciprocal, duty-free U.S. market access to select exports of eligible countries. Congress has repeatedly revised and extended these programs. The 112th Congress passed extensions to three trade preference programs: (1) the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) which expired on December 31, 2010 and was renewed retroactively from that date to July 31, 2013 (P.L. 112-40); (2) the Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) for Colombia and Ecuador until July 31, 2013 (P.L. 112-42); and (3) a 'third-country fabric' provision in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) until September 30, 2015 (P.L. 112-163). Since the GSP and ATPA programs were only extended until the end of July 2013, Congress may consider further renewal of these programs in the first session of the 113th Congress, along with possible trade preference reform options. Three bills in the 112th Congress, S. 105, S. 1244, and H.R. 2387, propose a new trade preference program that would provide duty-free and reduced tariff treatment for certain apparel from the Philippines. Other bills in the 112th Congress proposing preference programs include S. 1443, which would provide trade preferences for selected Asian and South Pacific countries. […] This report discusses the major U.S. trade preference programs, their possible economic effects, stakeholder interests, and legislative options."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Jones, Vivian Catherine; Hornbeck, J. F. (John F.); Villarreal, M. Angeles
2012-11-14
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Trade Primer: Qs and As on Trade Concepts, Performance, and Policy [January 18, 2013]
"The 113th Congress may have a full legislative and oversight agenda on international trade. This may include consideration of legislation to reauthorize Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) and implementation of a possible Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement. Congress may also pay close attention to the new negotiation for an International Services Agreement and developments in the Doha Development Round, both under the auspices of the World Trade Organization (WTO). There is also discussion of beginning trade negotiations for a U.S.- European Union free trade agreement (FTA). Other issues might include enhanced enforcement of U.S. trade agreements and trade relations with China. This report provides information and context for these and many other trade topics. It is intended to assist Members and staff who may be new to trade issues. For more details on specific trade issues facing the 113th Congress see CRS Report R42882, 'International Trade and Finance: Key Policy Issues for the 113th Congress,' coordinated by Mary A. Irace and J. F. Hornbeck. This report is divided into four sections in a question-and-answer format: trade concepts; U.S. trade performance; formulation of U.S. trade policy; and trade and investment issues. Additional suggested readings are provided in an appendix."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Hornbeck, J. F. (John F.); Bolle, Mary Jane; Cooper, William H., 1949- . . .
2013-01-18
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ATPA Renewal: Background and Issues [April 14, 2011]
"The Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) extends duty-free treatment to certain U.S. imports that meet domestic content and other requirements from designated countries in the Andean region. The purpose of ATPA is to promote economic growth in the Andean region and to encourage a shift away from dependence on illegal drugs by supporting legitimate economic activities. ATPA […] was enacted on December 4, 1991. It was renewed and modified under the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act […] on August 6, 2002, extending trade preferences until December 31, 2006. Since that time, Congress has provided several short-term extensions of ATPA. The most recent extension took place late in December 2010 when the 111th Congress enacted legislation for a six-week extension of ATPA for Colombia and Ecuador until February 12, 2011. […] The 112th Congress has not renewed ATPA. […] The trade effects of ATPA on the U.S. economy have been minimal because the amount of U.S. trade with the Andean region is low. The value of duty-free U.S. imports under ATPA accounts for about 0.8% of total U.S. imports, or 0.1% of the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP). Approximately 90% of U.S. imports from ATPA countries enter duty-free under various trade preference programs or through normal trade relations. Duty-free imports under ATPA account for 49.9% of total U.S. imports from ATPA countries. […] The 112th Congress may reevaluate the extension of ATPA trade preferences for one or more of the beneficiary countries. Policymakers may also consider broader reform of U.S. trade preference programs, including the Generalized System of Preferences."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2011-04-14
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U.S. Government Agencies Involved in Export Promotion: Overview and Issues for Congress [January 31, 2013]
"In times of economic crisis, including the global financial crisis of 2008-2009 and ensuing economic downturn, Congress often has debated on how best to promote U.S. commercial exports as a policy tool for economic growth and job creation. Congressional interest in U.S. export promotion policy has risen with President Obama's announcement of a National Export Initiative (NEI) in his 2010 State of the Union Address. The NEI is a strategy for doubling U.S. exports by 2014 in order to help generate 2 million new jobs in the United States through increased coordination and funding of federal export promotion activities; greater financing for U.S. exporters; increased government advocacy on behalf of U.S. exporters; and negotiation of new trade agreements and stronger enforcement of existing U.S. trade agreements. With the increased focus on export promotion efforts, some Members of Congress have placed greater priority on understanding the functions, coordination, and budgets of federal government agencies involved in export promotion. Such an understanding may support increased congressional oversight of U.S. export promotion policy and related legislative activity. It also may assist Members of Congress in supporting the efforts of their constituents to learn about federal export promotion services and to become involved in exporting. The 113th Congress could conduct oversight and legislate on a range of export promotion issues. This report provides an overview of the federal agencies that participate in U.S. export promotion efforts and the issues that they raise for Congress. While this report focuses on the role of the federal government in promoting exports, it is important to acknowledge that state and local governments, as well as businesses, also have an important role in promoting exports."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Akhtar, Shayerah Ilias; Hanrahan, Charles; Villarreal, M. Angeles
2013-01-31
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Trade Preferences: Economic Issues and Policy Options [January 10, 2013]
"Since 1974, Congress has created multiple trade preference programs designed to foster economic growth, reform, and development in less developed countries. These programs give temporary, non-reciprocal, duty-free U.S. market access to select exports of eligible countries. Congress has repeatedly revised and extended these programs. The112th Congress passed extensions to three trade preference programs: (1) the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) which expired on December 31, 2010 and was renewed retroactively from that date to July 31, 2013 (P.L. [Public Law] 112-40); (2) the Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) for Colombia and Ecuador until July 31, 2013 (P.L. 112-42); and (3) a 'third-country fabric' provision in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) until September 30, 2015 (P.L. 112-163). Since the GSP and ATPA programs were only extended until the end of July 2013, Congress may consider further renewal of these programs in the first session of the 113th Congress, along with possible trade preference reform options. Three bills in the 112th Congress, S. 105, S. 1244, and H.R. [House Resolution] 2387, propose a new trade preference program that would provide duty-free and reduced tariff treatment for certain apparel from the Philippines. Other bills in the 112th Congress proposing preference programs include S. 1443, which would provide trade preferences for selected Asian and South Pacific countries."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Jones, Vivian Catherine; Hornbeck, J. F. (John F.); Villarreal, M. Angeles
2013-01-10
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U.S.-Mexico Economic Relations: Trends, Issues, and Implications [January 25, 2012]
"The bilateral economic and trade relationship with Mexico is of interest to U.S. policymakers because of Mexico's proximity to the United States, the high level of bilateral trade, and the strong cultural and economic ties that connect the two countries. Also, it is of national interest for the United States to have a prosperous and democratic Mexico as a neighboring country. Mexico is the United States' third-largest trading partner, while the United States is, by far, Mexico's largest trading partner. Mexico ranks third as a source of U.S. imports, after China and Canada, and second, after Canada, as an export market for U.S. goods and services. The United States is the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mexico. The 112th Congress will likely maintain an active interest in Mexico on issues related to cross-border trade between the two countries, the implementation of NAFTA trucking provisions, economic conditions in Mexico, migration, counternarcotics, and border issues."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2012-01-25
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U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement [December 20, 2011]
"On October 3, 2011, President Barack Obama submitted draft legislation (H.R. 3078/S. 1641) to both houses of Congress to implement the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement. On October 12, 2011, the House passed H.R. 3078 (262-167) and sent it to the Senate. The Senate passed the implementing legislation (66-33) on the same day. The agreement, which is most often called the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), is a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) between the United States and Colombia, which will eventually eliminate tariffs and other barriers in bilateral trade in goods and services. The FTA was signed by both countries almost five years earlier, on November 22, 2006. The Colombian Congress approved it in June 2007 and again in October 2007, after it was modified to include new provisions after the May 10, 2007 bipartisan understanding between congressional leadership and President George W. Bush. Before the FTA enters into force, the two countries must demonstrate that they have laws in place to meet their obligations under the agreement. Upon entry into force, the agreement will immediately eliminate duties on 80% of U.S. exports of consumer and industrial products to Colombia. Most remaining tariffs will be eliminated within 10 years of implementation."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2011-12-20
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ATPA Renewal: Background and Issues [January 9, 2012]
From the Document: "The Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) extends duty-free treatment to certain U.S. imports that meet domestic content and other requirements from designated countries in the Andean region. The purpose of ATPA is to promote economic growth in the Andean region and to encourage a shift away from dependence on illegal drugs by supporting legitimate economic activities. ATPA (Title II of P.L. 102-182) was enacted on December 4, 1991. It was renewed and modified under the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act (ATPDEA; Title XXXI of P.L. 107-210) on August 6, 2002, extending trade preferences until December 31, 2006. Since that time, Congress has provided several short-term extensions of ATPA. The most recent extension took place on October 12, 2011, when the 112th Congress enacted implementing legislation for the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (P.L. 112-42). As part of the free trade agreement implementing legislation, ATPA was renewed for Colombia and Ecuador until July 31, 2013."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2012-01-09
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U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement: Background and Issues [April 27, 2012]
"The U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement, or U.S. Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, as it is officially called, is a comprehensive free trade agreement (FTA) between the United States and Colombia, which will eventually eliminate tariffs and other barriers in bilateral trade in goods and services. On April 15, 2012, at the Summit of the Americas in Cartagena Colombia, President Barack Obama announced that the agreement would enter into force on May 15, 2012, sooner than many observers expected. The announcement came after completion of several months of work by both governments to review each other's laws and regulations related to the implementation of the FTA, as well as to Colombia's efforts to fulfill its set of commitments under the Action Plan Related to Labor Rights. […] The CFTA negotiations grew out of a regional effort in 2004 to produce a U.S.-Andean free trade agreement between the United States and the Andean countries of Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador. After numerous rounds of talks, however, negotiators failed to reach an agreement, and Colombia continued negotiations with the United States for a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA). On February 27, 2006, the United States and Colombia concluded the U.S.-Colombia FTA, and finalized the text of the agreement on July 8, 2006. On August 24, 2006, President Bush notified Congress of his intention to sign the U.S.-Colombia FTA. The two countries signed the agreement on November 22, 2006. The Colombian Congress approved the agreement in June 2007 and again in October 2007, after the agreement was modified to include new labor and environmental provisions."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2012-04-27
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U.S.-Mexico Economic Relations: Trends, Issues, and Implications [Updated January 24, 2005]
"The overall effect of NAFTA on the U.S. economy has been relatively small, primarily because two-way trade with Mexico amounts to less than three percent of U.S. GDP. The most significant trade issues that the United States and Mexico are focusing on in 2005 include agricultural products, the trucking industry, and rules of origin. Over the last decade, the economic relationship between the United States and Mexico has strengthened significantly. The two countries continue to cooperate on issues of mutual concern. On March 23, 2005, President Bush met with President Fox and Prime Minister Martin of Canada to discuss issues related to North American trade, immigration and defense. After the meeting, the three leaders announced the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America (SPP) in which they seek to establish a cooperative approach to advance their common security and prosperity; develop a common security strategy; and promote economic growth, competitiveness, and quality of life. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2006-01-24
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Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America: An Overview and Selected Issues [Updated January 29, 2008]
"The Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America (SPP) is a three-country initiative that is intended to increase cooperation and information sharing in an effort to increase and enhance prosperity in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The SPP was endorsed by the leaders of the three countries, but it is not a signed agreement or treaty and, therefore, contains no legally binding commitments or obligations. The goals of the prosperity components of the SPP are to increase cooperation and sharing of information in order to improve productivity, reduce the costs of trade, and enhance the quality of life. The goal of the security components of the SPP is to coordinate the security efforts undertaken by each of the three participating nations to better protect citizens from terrorist threats and transnational crime while promoting the safe and efficient movement of legitimate people and goods. Congressional interest in the SPP concerns possible implications related to the North American economic cooperation, national sovereignty, transportation corridors, cargo security, and border facilitation. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles; Lake, Jennifer E.
2008-01-29
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U.S.-Mexico Economic Relations: Trends, Issues, and Implications [Updated January 25, 2008]
"The bilateral economic relationship with Mexico is among the most important for the United States. The most significant feature of the relationship is the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which has been in effect since 1994. In terms of total trade, Mexico is the United States' second largest trading partner, while the United States ranks first among Mexico's trading partners. In U.S. imports, Mexico ranks third among U.S. trading partners, after Canada and China, while in exports Mexico ranks second, after Canada. The United States is the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mexico. These links are critical to many U.S. industries and border communities. […]. Over the last decade, the economic relationship between the United States and Mexico has strengthened significantly. The two countries continue to cooperate on issues of mutual concern. On March 23, 2005, President Bush met with the leaders of Mexico and Canada to discuss issues related to North American trade, immigration and defense. After the meeting, the three leaders announced the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America (SPP), an initiative that is intended to increase cooperation and information sharing in an effort to increase and enhance prosperity in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In March 2006, the three countries agreed to advance the SPP agenda by focusing on five high priority areas. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2008-01-25
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U.S.-Mexico Economic Relations: Trends, Issues, and Implications [June 1, 2007]
"Mexico has a population of slightly over 107 million people making it the most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world and the third most populous country in the Western Hemisphere. Based on a gross domestic product (GDP) of $840 billion in 2006 (about 6% of U.S. GDP), Mexico has a free market economy with a strong export sector that is very sensitive to changes in the U.S. economy. Mexico's economy is relatively small compared to the U.S. economy. Economic conditions in Mexico are important to the United States because of the close trade and investment interactions, and because of other social and political issues that are affected by economic conditions, such as immigration. […] The most significant trade issues that the United States and Mexico are focusing on in 2005 involve the following: access of Mexican trucks to the United States; the access of Mexican sugar, tuna, avocados to the U.S. market; and the access of U.S. sweeteners to the Mexican market. Over the last decade, the economic relationship between the United States and Mexico has strengthened significantly. The two countries continue to cooperate on issues of mutual concern. On March 23, 2005, President Bush met with the leaders of Mexico and Canada to discuss issues related to North American trade, immigration and defense. After the meeting, the three leaders announced the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America (SPP) in which they seek to establish a cooperative approach to advance their common security and prosperity; develop a common security strategy; and promote economic growth, competitiveness, and quality of life. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2007-06-01
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U.S.-Mexico Economic Relations: Trends, Issues, and Implications [January 24, 2006]
"Mexico has a population of slightly over 100 million people making it the most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world and the third most populous country in the Western Hemisphere. Based on a gross domestic product (GDP) of $677 billion in 2004 (about six percent of U.S. GDP), Mexico has a free market economy with a strong export sector that is very sensitive to changes in the U.S. economy. Mexico's economy is relatively small compared to the U.S. economy. Economic conditions in Mexico are important to the United States because of the close trade and investment interactions, and because of other social and political issues that could be affected by economic conditions, such as immigration. The bilateral economic relationship with Mexico is among the most important for the United States. The most significant feature of the relationship is the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which has been in effect since 1994. In bilateral trade, Mexico is the United States' second most important trading partner, while the United States is Mexico's most important trading partner. In U.S. imports, Mexico ranks third among U.S. trading partners, after Canada and China, while in exports Mexico ranks second, after Canada. The United States is the largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Mexico. These links are critical to many U.S. industries and border communities. […] After the meeting, the three leaders announced the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America (SPP) in which they seek to establish a cooperative approach to advance their common security and prosperity; develop a common security strategy; and promote economic growth, competitiveness, and quality of life. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2006-01-24
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U.S.-Peru Economic Relations and the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement [December 3, 2007]
"On December 7, 2005, the United States and Peru concluded negotiations on the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (PTPA). President Bush notified the Congress of the United States' intention to enter into the PTPA on January 6, 2006, and the agreement was signed on April 12, 2006 by U.S. Trade Representative Rob Portman and Peruvian Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism Alfredo Ferrero Diez. The PTPA is a comprehensive trade agreement that, if approved by Congress, would eliminate tariffs and other barriers in goods and services trade between the United States and Peru. The approval and implementation of a PTPA is a high priority for the Peruvian government. Peruvian President Alan García has met with President Bush and Members of Congress on several occasions in the United States to stress the importance of the agreement for Peru. […] On June 28, 2006, the Peruvian Congress voted 79 to 14 to approve the agreement. In May 2007, Congress and the Administration reached an agreement on a new bipartisan trade framework that calls for the inclusion of core labor and environmental standards in the text of pending and future trade agreements. The United States reached an agreement with Peru on June 25, 2007, on legally binding amendments to the PTPA on labor, the environment, and other matters to reflect the bipartisan agreement of May 10. On June 27, 2007, Peru's Congress voted 70 to 38 in favor of the amendments to the PTPA. This report will be updated as events warrant."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Villarreal, M. Angeles
2007-12-03
