ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 7206--ProclamationClinton · D Quiet signal

Proclamation 7206--

To Modify Duty-Free Treatment Under the Generalized System of Preferences and for Other Purposes

This proclamation modifies U.S. tariff preferences under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). It designates Gabon and Mongolia as beneficiary developing countries, restores Mauritania's least-developed country status, adds Cambodia to the ASEAN regional grouping for GSP purposes, and adjusts competitive need limitations and waivers for specific products from various countries. The changes are implemented through modifications to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS).

Federal Register Open PDF 64 FR 36229

Impact dates

  1. Annex I HTS modifications effective on dates specified in annex

  2. Annex II waivers effective on signature date

Key directives

  • Designate Gabon and Mongolia as GSP beneficiary developing countries
  • Modify names of two previously designated beneficiary developing countries
  • Restore Mauritania as least-developed beneficiary developing country under GSP
  • Add Cambodia to ASEAN grouping treated as one country for GSP purposes
  • Waive competitive need limitations for specific articles from specific countries
  • Modify general notes 4(a), 4(b), and 4(d) of the HTS
  • Modify Rates of Duty 1-Special subcolumn for enumerated HTS subheadings

Timeline

Immediate

  • Proclamation effective upon signature for Annex II waivers (June 30, 1999)
  • Cambodia added to ASEAN grouping for GSP purposes
  • Mauritania GSP benefits restored

Near term (90d)

  • HTS modifications under Annex I take effect on dates specified in annex (specific dates not stated in text)

Long term

  • Ongoing trade preference relationships with newly designated countries
  • Potential economic integration effects for ASEAN grouping

Risks & tensions

  • Specific effective dates for Annex I modifications not stated in body text—requires reference to annex
  • Potential adverse effects on U.S. industries from waivers addressed through ITC consultation process
  • Supersession clause may create uncertainty for importers relying on prior proclamations
Proclamation 7206--: To Modify Duty-Free Treatment Under the Generalized System of Preferences and for Other Purposes · Executive Orders