97 The United States Should Establish Permanent Normal Trade Relations with Russia

Congressional approval of Permanent Normal Trading Relations for Russia is an important step in strengthening the U.S.-Russia economic relationship.

This report discusses the issues surrounding whether or not the U.S. should grant Russia permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) following its accession into the World Trade Organization (WTO). The change in Russia's trade status will require legislation to lift the restrictions of Title IV of the Trade Act of 1974 as they apply to Russia, which includes the "freedom-of-emigration" requirements of the Jackson-Vanik amendment.

During his November 13-15, 2001 meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, President George W. Bush stated that his administration will work with the Congress to grant Russia permanent "normal trade relations" (PNTR) status. The change in Russia's trade status will require legislation to lift the restrictions currently applied to Russia under Title IV of the Trade Act of 1974, which includes the "freedom-of-emigration" requirements of the Jackson-Vanik amendment. Two bills have been introduced in the 107th Congress, H.R. 3553 (Thomas) and S. 1861 (Lugar) to grant PNTR status to Russia. This report will be updated as events warrant.

To explore permanent normal trade relations for Russia: hearing before the Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and Means, House of Representatives, One Hundred Seventh Congress, second session, April 11, 2002.

To explore permanent normal trade relations for Russia : hearing before the Subcommittee on Trade of the Committee on Ways and Means, House of Representatives, One Hundred Seventh Congress, second session, April 11, 2002.