Argentina, US Discuss Critical Minerals, Agriculture, Customs Facilitation

Trade talks between the U.S. and Argentina this week covered customs facilitation, lithium and copper, and agricultural concerns on both sides.

According to a joint statement released by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, Argentina wishes to be added to the Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity, and the U.S. said it will keep Argentina apprised of a process to expand APEP to other countries.

The two countries said they will deepen cooperation on critical minerals. "Argentina presented the potential of the sector in the country and the investments being made, especially in lithium and copper," the statement said.

On trade facilitation, Argentina and the U.S. said they are reviewing their "customs fees and procedures with the aim of reducing the time and cost of compliance for traders and operators."

On agriculture, Argentina said it hopes that USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will publish its pest risk assessment for Argentine sweet citrus fruits soon. The U.S. said it's important that Argentina not restrict the use of common food names through geographical indication protections (such as parmesan).