PROSPER in the Pacific Act

H.R. 6619, the PROSPER in the Pacific Act, would strengthen economic partnerships between the United States and Pacific Island nations through trade benefits and capacity-building programs. The bill would extend duty-free treatment to certain goods imported from eligible Pacific Islands in the same manner afforded to least-developed developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences. This would apply to products like tuna, cane sugar, ginger, and taro that are among the Pacific islands' top exports to the U.S.

The bill would also direct the U.S. president to develop a plan for negotiating free trade agreements with Pacific Island governments and create a dedicated trade facilitation and capacity-building program. These initiatives would aim to promote inclusive economic development, create sustainable job opportunities, and improve standards of living in the region. The legislation is currently under committee consideration and has not yet been voted on by the full House.