“US Unveils New Trade Frameworks with Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Guatemala”

US Announces Trade Frameworks with Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Guatemala.

The Trump administration on Thursday announced trade frameworks with Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Guatemala aimed at expanding US firms’ access to industrial and agricultural markets in these countries.

The frameworks, which are yet to be finalized, are expected to be signed within two weeks. They cover reducing non-tariff barriers, cutting tariffs on American-made goods to 0%, and committing not to impose digital services taxes on US companies.

The agreements also include tariff relief on select imports from these countries, elimination and streamlining of import licenses, and commitments to resolve intellectual property rights issues.

Previously, under tariffs announced in July, the US imposed a 10% tax on goods from Argentina, El Salvador, and Guatemala, and a 15% tax on Ecuadorian imports due to trade surpluses and deficits.

Guatemala’s Response:
President Bernardo Arévalo called the framework “good news,” saying it would help attract new investments. Under the framework, 70% of Guatemala’s exports to the US will face zero tariffs, with exceptions for goods not produced in the US. The remaining products will still carry the 10% tariff.

Sector-Specific Relief:
Senior US officials indicated that tariffs could be reduced on coffee, cocoa, and bananas, benefiting both American companies and exporters from these countries.