Biden Administration Steps Include US Rejoining WTO, and Paris Climate Accord

Sandra Alvarez, Flexport LLC, CBFANC Legislative Committee

One area of change we are already seeing implemented: this Administration will vigorously pursue global environmental, human rights, labor, and governance/democracy change. Restrictions on imports of products from China manufactured with forced labor, begun under President Trump are already being pursued even more vigorously under President Biden. Just announced by Executive Order, new restrictions on imports from Myanmar as a response to the coup against the just-deposed democratically-elected leader.

More DC Updates/Appointments/COVID Relief  - Presidential nominee for US Trade Representative, Katherine Tai is expected to be confirmed.  We’re hearing all things positive on her appointment and she appears to have bipartisan support.  The COVID Bill:  The Administration is forging ahead on this package and will be using budget reconciliation.  The House is scheduled to pass the bill in late February. The Senate will take up soon thereafter.  There’s a lot in this 1.9 trillion relief package.  Most controversial is the $15.00 minimum wage. Progressives want it, moderates and conservatives do not.  The administration is aiming for distribution in mid-March so that it aligns with the expiring unemployment benefits that many across the country will soon face.  

USMCA - The President of the AFL-CIO is very concerned about International Trade Objectives; China 301, VN currency, and more pressing was to trigger lawsuits against manufacturers in Mexico over wages that they are not abiding by, with reference to USMCA. The lawsuits were set to launch in February, but are obviously late. More to follow on this as we get more information.