SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
FOREIGN TRADE ZONES landscape for close to a century. The environment in which it exists, however, has changed significantly since the program’ s inception. Today, companies face tariff uncertainty, sourcing shifts, supply chain disruption, compliance expectations and global competition. At this moment, US foreign-trade zones offer a structured, regulated way to support flexibility, efficiency and support domestic activity.
This program does not operate in isolation. It is affected by decisions involving customs systems, trade remedies, import requirements, manufacturing policy, enforcement priorities and economic development. Even well-intentioned policy changes can create unintended consequences if the unique structure of zone operations is not considered.
The caucus provides a bipartisan forum for members of Congress and their staff to hear directly from the American foreign-trade zone community.
It creates a venue to discuss support of broader issues, such as domestic manufacturing, jobs, investment, exports, and resilient supply chains. This keeps conversations dynamic and focused on the bigger picture, helping avoid narrow debates over a single issue or transaction.
That broader perspective is essential. Foreign-trade zones are sometimes misunderstood as strictly a duty-management mechanism. In practice, they are federally authorized, locally supported and highly regulated tools that require strong compliance and close coordination with federal agencies.
NAFTZ has long worked to help policymakers understand that balance. The Foreign-Trade Zone program provides meaningful economic and operational value, but it does so within a structured legal and regulatory framework. The goal is to make sure the program functions as intended and continues to support US competitiveness in a changing trade environment.
The first caucus event is expected to take place in September 2026, providing an early opportunity to bring members, staff and US FTZ stakeholders together.
As trade policy continues to evolve, sustained education will be essential. The creation of the caucus is an encouraging development because it recognizes that FTZs deserve a place in the national conversation about supply chains, investment, manufacturing and economic growth.
After more than 90 years, the United States FTZ program remains highly relevant. The new caucus can help ensure that policymakers understand the sustained value for an evolving future. n
Melissa Irmen, AZS, CZS, serves as director of advocacy for the National Association of Foreign- Trade Zones.
Port Houston manages FTZ 84, a leading zone delivering opportunities for foreign commerce to thrive and drive regional prosperity.
What Foreign Trade Zone 84 can do for you:
Reduce or eliminate import tariffs for U. S. importers and exporters
Reap the benefits of reduced inventory tax rates
Not a site? Gain access to public warehousing for your cargo needs
Uncover greater efficiencies and save money
www. porthouston. com / ftz www. joc. com August 3, 2026 | Journal of Commerce 45