USITC Launches Investigation of Potential U.S.-Japan FTA

On November 7, 2018, the U.S. International Trade Commission released (News Release 18-136; Inv. No. TA-131-043 and TPA-105-004) Probably Economic Effect of Providing Duty Free Treatment for Currently Dutiable Imports from Japn.

As requested, the USITC will advise the President as to the probable economic effect of providing duty-free treatment for imports of currently dutiable  products from Japan on industries in the United States producing like or directly competitive products and on consumers.  In preparing its advice, the USITC will consider each article in chapters 1 through 97 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) for which U.S. tariffs will remain, taking into account implementation of U.S. commitments in the World Trade Organization. The advice will be based on the HTSUS in effect during 2018 and trade data for the year 2017.

In addition, as requested, the USITC will prepare an assessment of the probable economic effects of eliminating tariffs on imports from Japan of certain agricultural products on U.S. industries producing the products concerned and on the U.S. economy as a whole.  A list of the agriculture products is attached to the USTR’s request letter.

The USITC expects to submit its report, which will be confidential, to the USTR by January 24, 2019.

The USITC is seeking input for the investigation from all interested parties and requests that the information focus on the issues for which the USITC is requested to provide information and advice. 

The USITC will hold a public hearing in connection with the investigation on December 6, 2018.  Requests to appear at the hearing should be filed no later than 5:15 p.m. on November 26, 2018, with the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20436.  For further information, call 202-205-2000.

The USITC also welcomes written submissions for the record.  Written submissions should be addressed to the Secretary of the Commission at the above address and should be submitted at the earliest practical date but no later than 5:15 p.m. on December 13, 2018. All written submissions, except for confidential business information, will be available for public inspection.