International Trade, Customs, and Global Competitiveness

The International Trade, Customs, and Global Competitiveness Subcommittee is one of six specialized divisions within the Senate Committee on Finance. It provides senators a focused forum to examine trade policy and related economic issues within the broader jurisdiction of the Finance Committee. The subcommittee handles a specific policy slice centered on international trade agreements, customs operations, trade enforcement, and strategies to strengthen U.S. competitiveness in global markets. Its work covers areas such as tariffs, trade agreements, supply chain resilience, and customs procedures at U.S. ports.

The subcommittee is chaired by Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) with Senator Raphael G. Warnock (D-GA) serving as Ranking Member. The 17-member panel includes both Republicans and Democrats. Recent hearings have examined trade enforcement and merchandise entry procedures at U.S. ports, as well as economic cooperation with Western Hemisphere partners. While no bills are currently referred to the subcommittee, it continues to hold hearings and prepare groundwork on trade matters before they advance to the full Finance Committee for consideration.