USTR Issues Annual Report On Foreign Trade, Investment Barriers for US Exports

Foreign trade and investment barriers faced by U.S. exports were detailed in the 2018 edition of the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative's (USTR) annual National Trade Estimate (NTE) report, released March 30.The report primarily takes inventory of trade policy developments over the previous year and breaks down trade barriers by country or trading bloc. In all, 64 countries, customs territories and regional associations, and all 20 of the United States’ free trade agreement (FTA) partners are covered by the NTE.The trade policy moves and outcomes detailed in the 2018 NTE are consistent with President Donald Trump's pledges to promote "fair and reciprocal trade for American farmers, ranchers and manufacturers," along with "enforcing trade laws and holding our trading partners accountable," a report factsheet said."The President is fully committed to addressing unfair foreign trade barriers through tough enforcement and the negotiation of new agreements that increase U.S. exports and support high-paying jobs for all Americans,” said USTR Robert Lighthizer. "We will use every available tool to ensure Americans are treated fairly."