World Trade Week, 2015

President Obama proclaimed May 17-23, 2015 as World Trade Week, using the occasion to advocate for trade expansion, highlight export growth, and promote the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement then under negotiation. The proclamation encouraged Americans to observe the week with educational events about trade benefits.

Federal Register Open PDF 80 FR 29197

Impact dates

May 23, 2015
World Trade Week ends
May 17, 2015
World Trade Week begins

Key directives

Proclaim May 17 through May 23, 2015 as World Trade Week
Encourage all Americans to visit www.WhiteHouse.gov/Trade
Encourage Americans to observe this week with events, trade shows, and educational programs

Timeline

Immediate

Proclamation of May 17-23, 2015 as World Trade Week

Near term (90d)

Encouragement for Americans to hold trade-related events and educational programs during the designated week

Long term

—

Risks & tensions

Proclamation serves as political messaging vehicle for controversial TPP negotiations then pending before Congress
Reference to 'upgrade' trade negotiating authority reflects pending legislative fight over Trade Promotion Authority
Labor and environmental standards claims reflect contested promises about TPP