ITC studies possible effects of modified NAFTA rules of origin
The U.S. International Trade Commission is seeking input on a newly initiated investigation concerning proposed changes to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) rules of origin.
The U.S. Trade Representative asked the ITC to conduct the investigation in a May 23 letter. The ITC is an independent, nonpartisan, fact-finding federal agency. The agency will provide advice on the probable effects of the proposed rules of origin modifications on U.S. trade under the NAFTA and on domestic industries.
The articles covered in the ITC investigation include cocoa; cranberry juice; ores, slag, and ash; leather; cork; feathers and down, artificial flowers, and articles of human hair; glass and glassware; copper; nickel; lead; zinc; tin; other base metals; televisions; information technology agreement goods; and controls.
The ITC expects to submit its advice to the USTR by Sept. 26.
No public hearing is scheduled for the investigation. However, the ITC will take written comments by Aug. 3. For more information, access online: http://www.usitc.gov.