H.R.1625 - Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1625, the Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act of 2025, aims to extend duty-free treatment for imports from Haiti under the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA) until September 30, 2035. The bill modifies existing rules regarding the applicable percentage and quantitative limitations for preferential treatment. It also seeks to restore eligibility for preferential treatment to certain articles that became ineligible due to revisions in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Expected Effects
The extension of duty-free treatment is intended to support Haiti's economic development by encouraging trade with the United States. Restoring eligibility for certain articles aims to correct unintended consequences of previous tariff schedule revisions. The changes could lead to increased apparel imports from Haiti and provide economic benefits to Haitian producers.
Potential Benefits
- Economic Support for Haiti: Extends trade preferences, potentially boosting Haiti's economy.
- Increased Trade Volume: Could lead to higher volumes of Haitian exports to the U.S.
- Job Creation in Haiti: Increased exports may support job growth in Haiti's apparel industry.
- Correction of Technical Issues: Restores eligibility for certain articles, fixing unintended consequences.
- Supports Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act: Reinforces the goals of CBERA.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Impact on U.S. Apparel Industry: Increased imports from Haiti could pose challenges for domestic apparel manufacturers.
- Limited Scope: The benefits are concentrated on specific sectors (primarily apparel).
- Dependence on U.S. Market: Haiti's economy becomes more reliant on the U.S. market, creating vulnerability.
- Risk of Exploitation: Potential for labor exploitation in Haiti's apparel industry to meet demand.
- Administrative Burden: Implementing and monitoring the preferential treatment requires administrative resources.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. By extending and modifying trade preferences for Haiti, the bill exercises this constitutional authority. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any other constitutional provisions or individual rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).