Peoria Standard

U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood and Suzan DelBene, along with Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Adrian Smith and Ranking Member Earl Blumenauer, have joined forces to protect American workers and businesses from the potential harm of new tariffs and trade barriers on digital goods and services. The bipartisan effort calls on World Trade Organization (WTO) members to renew a longstanding agreement that prevents such barriers.

In a letter addressed to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, 30 House lawmakers emphasize the importance of renewing the Moratorium on Customs Duties on Electronic Transmissions at the thirteenth WTO Ministerial Conference (MC13). The lawmakers highlight the significance of the international flow of digital goods and services for American workers and businesses, particularly small businesses that rely on digital tools to export products and services globally.

The letter states, "Failing to renew the Moratorium for the first time in a quarter century would undermine the strength of the American economy, jobs, and innovation." Without the renewal of the Moratorium, governments would be free to impose tariffs and trade barriers on various American industries that heavily rely on the free flow of data, including manufacturing, agriculture, entertainment, software, financial services, semiconductors, aerospace, autos, robotics, and medical devices.

It is important to note that the Moratorium on Customs Duties on Electronic Transmissions has been in place since 1998, with the U.S. and all other WTO members agreeing not to impose tariffs on electronic transmissions. The moratorium has consistently been extended at WTO ministerial conferences, and the U.S. has been a strong advocate for its continuation. The agreement covers both digital goods and digital services, providing a stable environment for the growth of digital trade and the creation of American jobs.

The bipartisan effort led by Representatives LaHood, DelBene, Smith, and Blumenauer seeks to protect American workers and businesses from potential harm and ensure the continued growth and innovation of the American economy. Renewing the Moratorium on Customs Duties on Electronic Transmissions at the thirteenth WTO Ministerial Conference is crucial for maintaining a favorable trade environment for digital goods and services.

The full letter can be read here.