ITC investigates proposed NAFTA origin changes

   The U.S. International Trade Commission said it’s seeking input for a new investigation into proposed modifications of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) rules of origin.
   The investigation, Probable Economic Effect of Certain Modifications to the North American Free Trade Agreement Rules of Origin, was requested by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative on March 11.
   ITC, an independent, nonpartisan, fact-finding agency, will provide advice on the probable economic effect of the proposed NAFTA rules of origin modifications on U.S. trade and domestic producers of the affected articles.
   The investigation covers a variety of goods, including miscellaneous edible preparations; mineral fuels; products of the chemical or allied industries; plastics; rubber and related articles; cork; glass and glassware; copper, nickel, lead, tin, zinc, and other base metals; nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery, mechanical appliances, and related parts; electrical machinery and related parts; rail locomotives and parts; parts for trailers and semi-trailers; optical, medical, measuring, or checking instruments and apparatus; certain furniture; certain toys and games; lighters; and smoking pipes.
   ITC expects to submit its advice to the USTR by Nov. 12.
   The agency will not hold a public hearing in connection with the investigation. However, it welcomes written submissions for the record by June 4. For more details, access the ITC’s Website.