Survey
* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project
* Your assessment is very important for improving the workof artificial intelligence, which forms the content of this project
GSP AND ATPDEA PROGRAMS SET TO EXPIRE Both the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act (ATPDEA) are scheduled to expire December 31, 2006. Through GSP, more than 4,650 manufactured products originating in any of the 144 beneficiary developing countries receive duty-free entry into the U.S. ATPDEA provides similar duty-free treatment for products of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. As in numerous previous years, it appears unlikely that either will be renewed or extended by Congress prior to their expiration. In the past, GSP was eventually renewed retroactively later in the following year. Retroactive renewal is indeed possible after expiration, but it is unlikely that such renewal will return either bill to the current status. It is unlikely that all the countries currently enjoying benefits will be included with any renewal of the GSP. Faced with the current major trade deficit, Congress will likely be more inclined to discontinue unilateral benefits whenever possible in favor of bilateral free trade agreements. The office of the U.S. Trade Representative is considering possible changes to GSP under the existing framework. The USTR has been evaluating responses to its 2006 product and country eligibility review. It is believed possible that the revisions may result in renewal of GSP in a modified form. More information may be obtained by visiting the website of the “Coalition for GSP.” at http://www.tradepartnership.com/site/coalition_gsp.html and/or the website of the U.S. Trade Representative http://www.ustr.gov/Trade_Development/Preference_Programs/GSP/Section_Index.html