• Incoming US Commerce Secretary to Steer America First Trade Policy and Address National Security Concerns

  • Feb 9 2025
  • Durée: 3 min
  • Podcast

Incoming US Commerce Secretary to Steer America First Trade Policy and Address National Security Concerns

  • Résumé

  • In the last few days, the role of the Secretary of Commerce has been at the forefront of several significant developments, particularly following the inauguration of President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025.

    President Trump has nominated Howard Lutnick to be the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, and on January 29, 2025, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation convened a nomination hearing for Lutnick. This hearing is a crucial step in the confirmation process, where Lutnick will face questioning from senators regarding his qualifications and policies[1].

    One of the key policy areas that the new Secretary of Commerce will be involved in is the implementation of President Trump's "America First Trade Policy." Signed into effect shortly after Trump's inauguration, this Presidential Memo aims to promote investment and productivity, enhance the USA's industrial and technological advantages, and defend economic and national security concerns. The Secretary of Commerce has been directed to investigate intellectual property rights conferred on Chinese persons to assess whether there is reciprocal and balanced treatment. Additionally, the Secretary will lead one of the three reports required by the Presidential Memo, focusing on economic security matters, supply chains, export controls, and national security concerns, which must be submitted to President Trump by April 1, 2025[2].

    The "America First Trade Policy" also includes potential tariffs on Mexico and Canada, which President Trump mentioned could start from February 1, 2025. This move is part of a broader strategy to address what the administration perceives as unfair trade practices. Companies that import goods into the U.S. are advised to take immediate actions to mitigate the impact of these tariffs[2].

    In another significant development, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), which falls under the Department of Commerce, has implemented new controls on certain biotechnology equipment and related technology. Effective January 6, 2025, this rule adds 13 entities to the Entity List, primarily from China, Burma, and Pakistan, due to their actions contrary to U.S. national security and foreign policy interests[3].

    Furthermore, the Secretary of Commerce will play a role in addressing the synthetic opioid supply chain in the People's Republic of China. An Executive Order issued on February 1, 2025, and amended on February 5, 2025, imposes duties to address this issue. The Secretary of Commerce is involved in ensuring that adequate systems are in place to process and collect tariff revenue related to this order[5].

    These developments highlight the critical role the Secretary of Commerce will play in shaping and implementing key trade and economic policies under the Trump administration. As the confirmation process for Howard Lutnick continues, the secretary's responsibilities will include navigating complex trade relationships, enforcing new regulations, and addressing national security concerns.
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