Certain Egypt Exports To U.S. Will Be Duty-Free

ByJohn S. McClenahen Under terms of a 1996 law designed to create so-called qualified industrial zones (QIZs), exports from Egypt to the United States will soon begin to entry duty-free, provided they contain Israeli content. Previously such special-purpose zones existed only in Jordan. "These industrial zones will create a daily opportunity to build business and personal relationships among Egyptians, Israelis and Americans," said Robert B. Zoellick, the U.S. Trade Representative. "Our successful experience with Jordan suggests that establishing QIZs in Egypt will significantly expand trade, promote investment and create hope." Within the Middle East, the U.S. now has free-trade agreements with Israel, Jordan and Morocco; a pact with Bahrain is pending before the U.S. Congress.