Dear JPA Government Affairs Committee:
The following is an update from JPA International Trade Counsel, Paul Rosenthal of Kelley Drye & Warren LLP.
After many twists and turns, last week Congress passed the Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) legislation. The TPA law allows the President to negotiate trade agreements with other countries and have those agreements presented to Congress for approval without being subject to amendment; the proposed trade agreement must be voted on with an “up or down” vote. The House and Senate approved the controversial legislation by narrow majorities.
By itself, TPA has no direct impact on JPA members. The legislation does allow for the conclusion of the TransPacific Partnership negotiations, which will affect trade of juices. The TPP negotiations are expected to be completed this year. The TPA law also paves the way for the TransAtlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, a free trade agreement that the United States is negotiating with the European Union.
As always, please let us know if you have any questions.
Regards,
JPA Staff
Juice Products Association
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