Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms Program Elements and Effectiveness

Trade liberalisation can enhance the economic welfare of all trade partners, but in adjusting to greater competition, many import- competing firms and workers face difficult problems. Since 1962, Congress has responded to these adjustment costs by authorising trade adjustment assistance (TAA) programs for workers, firms, and farmers, and continues to monitor their performance and amend the governing legislation. This book discusses the Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms (TAAF) program, which provides technical assistance to trade- affected firms to help them develop strategies to remain competitive in a dynamic international economy. Legislation has been introduced in the 113th Congress that would reauthorise TAA programs, which are set to expire on December 31, 2013. President Obama also has supported TAA reauthorisation, linking it to renewal of Trade Promotion Authority (TPA).