Peru to Cast Decisive FTA Vote
Prensa Latina, Cuba
Peru to Cast Decisive FTA Vote
26 June 2006
Lima, Jun 26 (Prensa Latina) The Peruvian congress is defining this week whether it ratifies or rejects the current controversial Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US, signed by both nations in April but still without legislative approval.
Parliament Vice President Fausto Alvarado said the 120 congressmen should make a decision between Tuesday and Wednesday as well as debate and pass compensatory measures for the production activities that may be affected if that deal finally comes into force.
For the ratification of the FTA with Washington, only a simple majority of congresspeople attending the plenary session is needed, however, that conclusion will be difficult because of the fierce fight in the Andean country over the trade pact.
Even though the FTA bolsters the tariff benefits Peru has within the framework of the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug Eradication Act, in force until the end of 2006, several sectors assert it is destructive for agriculture.
