USTR Requests Comments on Korea FTA

July 27, 2009

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is assessing how and to what extent the free trade agreement (FTA) between the U.S. and the Republic of Korea makes progress in achieving the applicable purposes, policies, priorities, and objectives of the Bipartisan Trade Promotion Authority Act of 2002 (TPA Act) and carries out the provisions of the May 10, 2007 Congressional-Executive Agreement on Trade Policy. As part of that assessment, USTR will consider comments from the public on any provision or aspect of the FTA or any other matter relevant to the FTA.

In particular, USTR seeks comments regarding:

• How implementation of the FTA will affect trade between Korea and the U.S., in general and with respect to particular goods or services;
• Economic costs and benefits to U.S. workers, farmers, ranchers, businesses and consumers of removal of tariffs and non-tariff barriers affecting trade between the U.S. and Korea; and
• Any additional steps that one or both governments should take to address specific concerns regarding the FTA and the bilateral trade and investment relationship.

Interested parties should submit written comments by 12:00 PM on September 15, 2009 to ensure consideration by USTR.