U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), who serve as chairman and ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, have introduced legislation to repeal the Jackson-Vanik trade restrictions. They are joined by Senators Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and Representatives Carol Miller (WV-01) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19).
The bill aims to remove Cold War-era limitations that continue to affect U.S. trade with Central Asian countries.
“As a volatile Russia and an increasingly aggressive China pursue their own interests across the globe, the U.S. offers Central Asian nations the opportunity to work with an equal partner. Removing outdated Jackson-Vanik restrictions on our partners will pave the way for a new era of economic cooperation in Central Asia. I am proud to introduce this bill in support for President Trump’s efforts to build a secure and prosperous future for the U.S. and our C5+1 partners,” said Risch.
Senator Daines emphasized both economic opportunities and strategic importance: “Central Asia is rich in natural resources and is a strategically critical region for the U.S. Unfortunately, Central Asia is still subject to outdated, Cold War-era trade restrictions that prevent any permanent investment and hinder American trade and prosperity. It’s past time that we get rid of these outdated restrictions and I’m proud to work with my colleagues on a bill that will repeal Jackson-Vanik and unleash the full potential of American relationships with Central Asia.”
Senator Murphy reflected on the historical context: “What was once a useful tool to coerce the Soviet Union into improving its treatment of Soviet Jews and minority groups, today the Jackson-Vanik amendment is an outdated policy that is holding back our partnerships with important countries in Central Asia. This bipartisan legislation is an opportunity to redefine our relationship with the region and advance America’s economic and national security interests.”
Shaheen pointed out current geopolitical challenges: “America’s partnerships with the strategically vital economies of Central Asia are strong and growing, but we also must incentivize long-term U.S. investments as China and Russia continue to pursue malign tactics and predatory programs. That is why I am proud to cosponsor this bipartisan bill to terminate trade restrictions that have long hindered America’s engagement in this region. I look forward to helping unlock the full potential of our collaboration with Central Asia.”
Representative Miller stated: “It is essential we strengthen America’s trade relationships with Central Asian countries to ensure that all of our nations can thrive economically. The Jackson-Vanik Amendment is a relic of the Cold War that hinders our growing partnerships in the region. Granting Central Asian allies Permanent Normal Trade Relations reaffirms our commitment to building lasting economic agreements grounded in shared prosperity and a collective vision for a more stable and interconnected global economy. I look forward to continuing these conversations with President Trump and my colleagues in Congress.”
Panetta added: "The Jackson-Vanik Amendment is an antiquated law that no longer applies to many countries, like Kazakhstan, that could be key to America's economic and strategic interests in Central Asia. By rolling back this outdated policy, we could modernize our trade practices, promote greater economic cooperation, increase investment opportunities, and strengthen our relationships in the region. It’s long past time we got rid of Jackson-Vanik and brought U.S. trade partnerships in Central Asia into the 21st century."
The Jackson-Vanik amendment was established under Section 402 of the 1974 Trade Act as part of measures denying unconditional normal trade relations status—formerly known as most-favored-nation status—to non-market economies restricting emigration rights.
Senator Daines has consistently advocated for repealing these restrictions during Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearings; he has also visited all five nations within Central Asia.
