Digital Trade for Development Act
Latest action (12 Jan 2024): Introduced
What this bill does
H.R. 6990, the "Digital Trade for Development Act," would amend the Trade Act of 1974's Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) provisions, which allow certain countries to export goods to the United States with reduced or no tariffs. The bill adds a new basis for the President, acting through the U.S. Trade Representative, to determine a country ineligible for GSP benefits: if that country restricts digital trade in ways that harm U.S. development goals, strategic interests, or competitiveness. It also directs that when deciding whether to designate a country as a beneficiary, the President must consider the extent to which the country avoids digital trade barriers—such as data localization or transfer restrictions, discriminatory treatment of digital products, or forced disclosure of proprietary source code—and has taken steps to protect consumers, personal privacy, and open digital ecosystems.
The bill primarily affects the executive branch's authority in administering the GSP program, and indirectly affects developing countries seeking GSP trade preferences, as well as U.S. businesses and consumers involved in international digital trade.
The bill was introduced on January 12, 2024, by Rep. Darin LaHood and referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. It did not receive a vote and did not advance further in the 118th Congress.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
This bill was introduced on January 12, 2024, in a previous session of Congress, but it did not receive a vote.
Common questions
- What does H.R. 6990 do?
- H.R. 6990, the "Digital Trade for Development Act," would amend the Trade Act of 1974's Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) provisions, which allow certain countries to export goods to the United States with reduced or no tariffs. The bill adds a new basis for the President, acting through the U.S. Trade Representative, to determine a country ineligible for GSP benefits: if that country restricts digital trade in ways that harm U.S. development goals, strategic interests, or competitiveness. It also directs that when deciding whether to designate a country as a beneficiary, the President must consider the extent to which the country avoids digital trade barriers—such as data localization or transfer restrictions, discriminatory treatment of digital products, or forced disclosure of proprietary source code—and has taken steps to protect consumers, personal privacy, and open digital ecosystems. The bill primarily affects the executive branch's authority in administering the GSP program, and indirectly affects developing countries seeking GSP trade preferences, as well as U.S. businesses and consumers involved in international digital trade. The bill was introduced on January 12, 2024, by Rep. Darin LaHood and referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. It did not receive a vote and did not advance further in the 118th Congress.
- Has H.R. 6990 become law?
- Not yet. As of 12 Jan 2024, H.R. 6990 is introduced.
- Who sponsored H.R. 6990?
- H.R. 6990 was sponsored by Rep. Darin LaHood [R-IL16] (Republican-IL), with 0 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on H.R. 6990?
- Introduced (12 Jan 2024).
Related bills in Foreign Trade and International Finance
Housing Tariff Exclusion Act
Stop China’s Exploitation of Congolese Children and Adult Forced Labor through Cobalt Mining Act
Back-to-School Supplies Affordability Act
Protecting American Beef Producers Act
Bill100 mirrors the public U.S. legislative record from Congress.gov and GovTrack and adds plain-English AI summaries. It is an information tool, not legal, compliance or lobbying advice, and it is not affiliated with the U.S. Congress or any government agency. AI summaries can simplify or omit detail — every bill links to the official source; verify there before you rely on it.