Lima, Peru -- On July 15, the United States and Peru held the first meeting of the Forest Sector Sub Committee established under the United States - Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (USPTPA) as a specific forum for the Parties to exchange views and share information on any matter arising under the Annex on Forest Sector Governance. Following this meeting the Parties held an open session with civil society and committed to hold open sessions after every meeting of the Sub Committee.
The Sub Committee, led by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and Peru's Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (MINCETUR), is composed of representatives from government agencies with expertise relevant to the implementation of the Annex on Forest Sector Governance, part of the Environment Chapter of the USPTPA. The Sub Committee intends to meet every six months.
BACKGROUND
The Annex on Forest Sector Governance, part of the Environment Chapter of the United States - Peru Trade Promotion Agreement, is the first set of provisions in any trade agreement between the United States and a trading partner that focuses on actions to improve forest sector governance. The Forest Sector Annex reflects the commitment of both countries to take concrete measures to combat trade associated with illegal logging and illegal trade in wildlife and further promote sustainable management of Peru's natural resources.
For more information, contact Debbie Mesloh at (202) 361-4762.
