LOC11:39
08:39 GMT
WASHINGTON, Feb 13 (KUNA) -- The United States and North Macedonia have agreed on a framework for a reciprocal, fair, and balanced Trade Agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral economic ties and expanding market access for exporters in both countries.
According to a joint statement issued by The White House, the framework is designed to reinforce trade relations, advance shared strategic interests, promote economic growth and deepen the transatlantic partnership.
Under the key terms, North Macedonia will eliminate customs duties on all US industrial and agricultural exports. The United States, for its part, will maintain reciprocal tariffs at 15 percent on originating goods from North Macedonia, while granting zero percent reciprocal tariffs on selected products.
Both sides may consider further tariff modifications following the conclusion of the agreement, taking into account trade balances and other relevant factors.
The two countries also agreed to address US concerns regarding non-tariff barriers affecting priority sectors and to hold consultations to prevent obstacles to US agricultural exports in the Macedonian market.
The framework includes commitments to enhance economic and national security cooperation, strengthen supply chain resilience, address non-market policies of third countries, combat duty evasion and coordinate on investment reviews and export controls.
The two sides will also work to ensure that international procurement obligations benefit only countries undertaking similar commitments.
In the energy sector, the parties noted the construction of a new gas interconnector between North Macedonia and Greece, which will bolster Skopje's energy security and diversification efforts, including through future purchases of US liquefied natural gas upon the project's completion.
The United States and North Macedonia will now work to finalize the agreement, prepare it for signature and complete the necessary domestic procedures prior to its entry into force. (end)
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