Resource Center
Preference Programs
The U.S. uses preference programs to assist other countries, usually in the developing world, through enhanced access to the U.S. market.
One of the oldest preference programs is the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which was initiated in 1976 and which offers duty-free treatment for 4800 products from 131 designated countries and territories throughout the world.
Another highly successful program is the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which was enacted in 2000 and also allows duty-free entry of goods from 40 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Other U.S. preference programs include the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) Program and the Andean Trade Preference Act (ATPA) program.
1/17/2007
12/20/2006
Ambassador Schwab Announces Process to Respond to Congressional Changes to GSP Progam
12/19/2006
U.S. Trade Representative Schwab Applauds Trade Bill Signing
12/8/2006
U.S. Trade Representative Schwab Welcomes Bipartisan Senate Vote Approving Key Trade Legislation
12/7/2006
U.S. Trade Representative Schwab Applauds Strong Bipartisan House Action on Critical Trade Bill
6/30/2009
Report on Bolivia and Ecuador with Regard to the Andean Trade Preference Act
4/30/2009
Fourth Report to Congress on ATPA as Amended
4/30/2007
Third Report to Congress on ATPA as Amended
6/30/2006
Results of the 2005 Annual Review of the Generalized System of Preferences