The IER is produced as part of the ITC's international trade monitoring program. The program's purpose is to keep the Commission informed about significant developments in international economics and trade and to maintain the Commission's readiness to provide technical information and advice to policy makers in the Congress and the executive branch. The opinions and conclusions of the IER are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Commission or any individual Commissioner.

The current issue (June/July/August 1998) includes the following articles:

• Cultural Protectionism and the Multilateral Trade Agreement on Investment -- Feeling threatened by the influence of U.S. popular culture, Canada and other countries aligned with Canada attempt to preserve their "unique" cultural heritage via trade legislation. The effort, however, will have certain ramifications on the global economy as negotiations for a multilateral investment agreement ensue.

• The Year in Trade 1997 -- The ITC's annual publication The Year in Trade provides a comprehensive review on U.S. trade related issues and activities including major multilateral regional and bilateral agreements.

In addition, the publication reviews U.S. economic performance relative to other major trade partners, the U.S. investment position abroad and foreign investment in the United States, U.S. trade performance, and economic forecasts. Comparative economic indicators for major industrialized countries are also provided. An annual IER chartbook depicting trends in U.S. trade with major trading partners and regions is also included in the IER series.

The current issue of the IER (USITC Publication 3128, June/July/August 1998) is on the ITC's Internet server at www.usitc.gov. To request a printed copy, write to the Office of the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20436, or fax requests to 202-205-2104.

To be added to the mailing list for the publication, write to the Office of Economics, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20436, or fax requests to 202-205-2340.