For more information on pursuing trade policy interests through the legislative process, please contact Nicole Bivens Collinson at (202) 730-4956 or via email.
Export controls. The Vessel Tracking for Sanctions Enforcement Act (S. 2248, introduced July 11 by Sen. Hassan, D-N.H.) would require (1) a pilot program on the use of big data analytics to identify vessels evading sanctions and export controls and (2) a report on the availability in the U.S. of emerging and foundational technologies subject to export controls.
Supply chains. The Building Relationships and Increasing Democratic Governance through Engagement to DRC Act (H.R. 4548, introduced July 12 by Rep. James, R-Mich.) would require a national strategy to secure U.S. supply chains involving critical minerals sourced from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A press release from James’ office noted that the DRC’s critical minerals “are required not just for U.S. industrial production but also for national security purposes” but that some of the DRC facilities producing these minerals are controlled by China.
Hong Kong. The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations favorably reported July 13 the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Certification Act (S. 490), which would require the president to annually certify whether HKETOs in the U.S. merit the extension of the privileges, exemptions, and immunities they currently maintain. If no, the HKETOs would have to terminate their operations within six months; if yes, Congress would have the authority to offer a disapproval resolution that, if adopted, would force the administration to revoke these privileges.
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