U.S. Trade Policy and Changing Domestic and Foreign Priorities: A Historical Overview


 

Publication Date: November 2003

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Author(s):

Research Area: Trade

Type:

Abstract:

U.S. trade policy involves actions that influence the flow and composition of goods, services, and investments. Resting at the intersection of domestic and foreign policy, trade policy seeks to promote both domestic and foreign policy objectives, economic as well as political. Viewed in historical perspective, foreign policy priorities have dominated U.S. trade policy decisions over long periods of time; conversely, domestic policy priorities have held sway in other eras. In today's post 9/11 world, foreign policy and national security priorities may be gaining increased prominence, although many interest groups and Members of Congress can be expected to push the Bush Administration also to support policies that more directly benefit domestic economic and political interests. This report will be updated as events warrant.