US industry more sure than Congress on Central America pact trade benefits
This article was originally published in Clinica
Executive Summary
The US device industry is applauding the passage of the controversial Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA), which will allow US manufacturers to sell goods tariff-free in the Dominican Republic and five Central American countries. The Republican-controlled House approved the trade pact by a razor thin 217-215 margin on July 27. Only 15 of the 202 Democratic members voted for CAFTA - the smallest number ever for a trade agreement. 27 Republicans voted against it. Under CAFTA, 98% of US exports to the six nations will receive duty-free status.