Title 19, Customs DutiesRelease 119-110
§2541 Functions of Trade Representative
Title 19 › CHAPTER 13 — TRADE AGREEMENTS ACT OF 1979 › SUBCHAPTER II — TECHNICAL BARRIERS TO TRADE (STANDARDS) › Part B — Functions of Federal Agencies › § 2541
Summary
The U.S. Trade Representative must plan and lead international trade policy needed to carry out this part of the law. They must handle U.S. talks with other countries to make shared rules about standards and must consult any federal agency with relevant expertise. For general authority on trade agreements, see section 2171 of this title.
Full Legal Text
Title 19, §2541
Customs Duties, Source: USLM XML via OLRC
(a)In general
The Trade Representative shall coordinate the consideration of international trade policy issues that arise as a result of, and shall develop international trade policy as it relates to, the implementation of this subchapter.
(b)Negotiating functions
The Trade Representative has responsibility for coordinating United States discussions and negotiations with foreign countries for the purpose of establishing mutual arrangements with respect to standards-related activities. In carrying out this responsibility, the Trade Representative shall inform and consult with any Federal agency having expertise in the matters under discussion and negotiation.
(c)Cross reference
For provisions of law regarding general authority of the Trade Representative with respect to trade agreements, see section 2171 of this title.
Legislative History
Notes & Related Subsidiaries
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1996—Pub. L. 104–295, § 21(b)(1), amended directory language of Pub. L. 103–182, § 351(b)(2). See 1993 Amendment notes below. Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 104–295, § 21(b)(2), substituted “Trade Representative” for “Special Representatives”. 1993—Pub. L. 103–182, § 351(b)(2)(B), as amended by Pub. L. 104–295, § 21(b)(1), substituted “Trade Representative” for “Special Representative” in section catchline. Subsecs. (a), (b). Pub. L. 103–182, § 351(b)(2)(A), as amended by Pub. L. 104–295, § 21(b)(1), substituted “Trade Representative” for “Special Representative” wherever appearing.
Reference
Citations & Metadata
Citation
19 U.S.C. § 2541
Title 19, Customs Duties
Last Updated
Sep 22, 2026
Release point: 119-110