CSMS Message: 09-000004

October 20, 2008

MEMORANDUM FOR: DIRECTORS, FIELD OPERATIONS

FROM : Executive Director,Trade Policy and Programs
Office of International Trade

SUBJECT: Guidance: Extension of GSP and ATPDEA benefits

HR 7222, signed by the President on October 16, 2008, extends the expiration of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) and the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act (ATPDEA). Both of these amendments are discussed in greater detail below. A separate memo will be sent for the textile provisions in this legislation.

Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)

GSP, set to expire on December 31, 2008, has been extended for an additional year for all beneficiary countries. This extension will expire on December 31, 2009.

Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act (ATPDEA)

The ATPDEA, scheduled to expire December 31, 2008, has been extended for all beneficiary countries. With respect to Colombia and Peru, ATPDEA has been extended for one year until December 31, 2009.

With respect to Ecuador, ATPDEA has been extended until December 31, 2009. However, if the President reviews Ecuador's compliance with the ATPDEA eligibility criteria prior to June 30, 2009, and determines that Ecuador is not in compliance with these criteria, then Ecuador's ATPDEA benefits will expire on June 30, 2009.

With respect to Bolivia, ATPDEA has been extended for six months, until June 30, 2009. An additional six-month extension is possible, but only if the President certifies Bolivia's compliance with ATPDEA eligibility criteria during its current review.

Copies of this memorandum should be made available to Port Directors, Assistant Port Directors, Supervisory Import Specialists, Import Specialists, Importers, Brokers and other interested parties.
Questions regarding this guidance should be directed to Ms. Heather Sykes, International Coordination Branch, at (202) 863-6099.

/s/

Brenda B. Smith

cc: Trade Operations Division, Office of Field Operations