WHAT IS THE CARIBBEAN BASIN TRADE PARTNERSHIP ACT (CBTPA)?
The CBTPA, enacted in October 2000, provides eligible countries certain trade benefits similar to those enjoyed by Mexico under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). It represents a significant step in the 15-year history of the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI), which has resulted in better export markets for U.S. goods and services. Through the CBTPA, U.S. merchandise exports and investment should continue to grow. All Central American countries are fully eligible for the new trade benefits under CBTPA. More information about CBTPA and CBI can be found at the Market Access and Compliance website (www.mac.doc.gov).
