United States Trade Leadership in the Indo-Pacific Act

This bill aims to keep the United States a strong economic leader in the Indo-Pacific. It does two main things: it orders a fast study of how current trade deals in the region affect U.S. workers and businesses, and it sets up an independent group to recommend a full trade plan for the region. The goal is to boost American exports and jobs, strengthen supply chains, and respond to China’s growing influence through large trade deals like RCEP and efforts around CPTPP .

Key points

• Who is affected: American workers and businesses, especially those competing or exporting in the Indo-Pacific region.
• What changes:
  • The U.S. International Trade Commission must, within 180 days, study how existing Indo-Pacific trade agreements (such as RCEP and CPTPP) and rules affect U.S. exports, competition, and supply chain strength. It also compares parts of USMCA with these pacts.
  • An independent Indo-Pacific Trade Strategy Commission is created to develop recommendations to keep the U.S. a leader, promote innovation and exports, counter unfair practices by China, and make supply chains more resilient. It will hold public hearings, take public comments for at least 45 days, and deliver a final report within 18 months.
• When:
  • Study finished within 180 days after the bill becomes law.
  • Commission begins 30 days after the bill becomes law.
  • Final report due within 18 months.