Representatives Carol Miller (R-WV) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), alongside Senators Steve Daines (R-MT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jim Risch (R-ID), and Chris Murphy (D-CT), have introduced new bipartisan legislation aimed at eliminating the Jackson-Vanik Amendment. The proposed measure seeks to restore permanent normal trade relations with key Central Asian countries.
Rep. Miller said, “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.”
Rep. 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 By rolling back this outdated policy, we could modernize our trade practices, promote greater economic cooperation, increase investment opportunities, and strengthen our relationships in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.”
Senator Murphy commented, “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Soviet Union into improving its treatment of Soviet Jews and minority groups, today the Jackson-Vanik amendment is an outdated policy that is holding back our partnerships with important countries in Central Asia.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.”
Senator Daines stated, “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natural resources and is a strategically critical region for the U.S. Unfortunately, Central Asia is still subject to outdated, Cold War-era trade restrictions that prevent any permanent investment and hinder American trade and prosperity. It’s past time that we get rid of these outdated restrictions and I’m proud to work with my colleagues on a bill that will repeal Jackson-Vanik and unleash the full potential of American relationships with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 Risch remarked, “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.”
Senator Shaheen noted, “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.”
The Jackson-Vanik Amendment was part of the 1974 Trade Act as a response during the Cold War era; it restricts normal trade relations based on emigration rules from former nonmarket economies. While Congress has already repealed its application for most countries over time, it still affects several nations in Central Asia such as Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
Central Asian countries have implemented significant reforms since gaining independence from the Soviet Union—aiming at better governance standards as they seek integration into global markets.
Proponents argue that repealing Jackson-Vanik would give American investors more certainty when partnering with these resource-rich nations—resources which currently are sourced largely from China or Russia—and could reinforce supply chains as well as commitments toward robust international collaborations.
Carol Miller has represented West Virginia’s 1st district in Congress since 2019 after previously serving in West Virginia’s House of Delegates from 2006 through 2018. She was born in Columbus, Ohio in 1950, graduated from Columbia College (South Carolina) with a BA degree in 1972, and resides now in Huntington.
