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 are not the views of the Commission or any individual Commissioner.

The current issue (November/December1998) includes the following articles:

Dispute Continues over Access of Mexican Sugar to the United States and U.S. Access of High Fructose Corn Syrup to Mexico -- Trade in sugar and in high fructose corn syrup remain issues of contention between the United States and Mexico. Meanwhile, the United States contests Mexico's allegations that U.S. exporters are dumping high fructose corn syrup on the Mexican market.

United States-European Union: Banana Split -- This article provides background on the U.S.-EU banana dispute, which has led the United States to threaten retaliation against the EU's newest banana import regime.

In addition, the publication reviews U.S. economic performance relative to other major trade partners, 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 3151, November/December 1998) is available 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.