What does Preamble of PROSPER in the Pacific Act do?

This bill aims to authorize preferential treatment for certain imports from the Pacific Islands.

What does SHORT TITLE. of PROSPER in the Pacific Act do?

This bill is formally titled the ``Promoting Regional Opportunities for Sustainable Prosperity and Economic Resilience in the Pacific Act'' or the ``PROSPER in the Pacific Act''.

What does SENSE OF CONGRESS. of PROSPER in the Pacific Act do?

This section expresses the sense of Congress regarding U.S. relations with the Pacific Islands. It acknowledges longstanding connections between the United States and the Pacific Islands, citing shared values and mutual cooperation. The section recognizes economic challenges faced by Pacific Island countries, including geographic isolation and vulnerability to natural disasters. It suggests that a U.S.-led preferential trade program could promote economic development and job creation in the region. The section asserts that such a trade program would also benefit the United States by advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific.

What does ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS. of PROSPER in the Pacific Act do?

This section outlines eligibility requirements for Pacific Islands countries to receive preferential trade treatment under section 4. A country's eligibility is determined by meeting requirements outlined in the African Growth and Opportunity Act, not meeting bases for ineligibility under the Trade Act of 1974, and fulfilling additional eligibility factors. Income threshold requirements applicable to other developing countries do not apply when determining eligibility for Pacific Islands countries. The withdrawal, suspension, or limitation of preferential treatment, as well as mandatory graduation, will follow provisions of section 502 of the Trade Act of 1974. The President cannot authorize preferential treatment if a country fails to protect worker rights, engages in gross human rights violations, or fails to enforce environmental laws. The President must consider factors such as worker rights, environmental enforcement, the rule of law, economic policies to reduce poverty, and anti-corruption measures when determining eligibility.

What does ELIGIBILITY FOR CERTAIN BENEFITS. of PROSPER in the Pacific Act do?

This section authorizes the President to designate articles as eligible from Pacific Islands countries. Eligibility for these articles is contingent on the country being listed as eligible under section 3(a). The designation process mirrors that used for least developed beneficiary developing countries under section 503 of the Trade Act of 1974. This includes subsections (a)(2) and (b) of section 503 of the Trade Act of 1974.

What does FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS WITH PACIFIC ISLANDS COUNTRIES. of PROSPER in the Pacific Act do?

This section declares a policy that free trade agreements should be negotiated with Pacific Islands countries where feasible. The President is required to develop a plan for negotiating and entering into trade agreements with interested Pacific Islands countries. The plan must include specific objectives, a suggested timetable, and anticipated benefits for both the United States and Pacific Islands countries. The plan must also outline a mutually agreed-upon timetable for negotiations and consider the role of regional organizations. The plan must detail the subject matter to be covered by negotiations and identify potentially affected laws and agreements. The plan must include procedures for consultation with Congress, the private sector, and Pacific Islands governments and organizations. The President must submit a report containing the plan to Congress within 12 months of the Act's enactment.

What does TRADE FACILITATION AND CAPACITY BUILDING. of PROSPER in the Pacific Act do?

This section establishes a trade facilitation and capacity building program for Pacific Islands countries. The program aims to enhance Pacific Island governments' ability to support exporters and inform potential exporters about foreign trade opportunities. It includes export finance training for financial institutions and governments in eligible Pacific Islands countries. The program will assist Pacific Island governments in publishing trade regulations and documentation online. It seeks to foster public-private dialogue to identify reform timelines, aligning with the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement. The program intends to increase online access to guides for importers and exporters, including information on U.S. tariff preference programs.

What does REPORTING REQUIREMENT. of PROSPER in the Pacific Act do?

This section establishes a reporting requirement for the President. The President must submit a report to Congress on the trade and investment policy of the United States for the Pacific Islands. The report must also cover the implementation of this Act. The initial report is due within one year of the Act's enactment. Subsequent reports are required annually through 2036.

What does TERMINATION. of PROSPER in the Pacific Act do?

This section establishes a termination date for duty-free treatment provided under the Act. Duty-free treatment will cease to be in effect after December 31, 2036.

What does DEFINITIONS. of PROSPER in the Pacific Act do?

This section defines key terms used within the Act. “Internationally recognized worker rights” includes the right of association, the right to organize and bargain collectively, a prohibition on forced labor, minimum age standards and prohibitions on child labor, acceptable working conditions, elimination of employment discrimination, and elimination of violence against workers. The term encompasses violence related to gender-based violence or harassment, and violence related to workers exercising their rights. “Pacific Islands,” “Pacific Islands country,” “country in the Pacific Islands,” and “countries in the Pacific Islands” are defined as a specific list of countries and territories including Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

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PROSPER in the Pacific Act

Last updated: 12/11/2025 · Introduced: 12/11/2025

Author: Ed Case (D-HI)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill authorizes the President to grant preferential trade treatment to Pacific Island countries, mirroring requirements from the African Growth and Opportunity Act.
The bill encourages the negotiation of free trade agreements with Pacific Island nations, requiring the President to develop a plan with specific objectives and a timetable.
It establishes a trade facilitation and capacity building program to help Pacific Island governments support exporters and improve access to trade information.
The President is mandated to report annually to Congress on U.S. trade and investment policy toward the Pacific Islands, including the implementation of this Act.
Duty-free trade benefits provided under this Act will terminate after December 31, 2036.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 8 more.

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