Greenville Reporter

Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. has introduced H.R. 1625, the HELP Extension Act, aiming to extend the HOPE/HELP trade programs with Haiti for an additional ten years. This bipartisan legislation is designed to strengthen America's nearshore supply chains and improve stability in the Caribbean region.

"The HOPE and HELP programs have proven to be mutually beneficial to the United States and Haiti," said Congressman Murphy. He emphasized that redirecting supply chains from China to neighboring countries offers stability for American consumers and businesses while fostering economic opportunities in Haiti.

Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Co-Chair of the House Haiti Caucus, highlighted the importance of these trade programs in bolstering Haiti's economy: "The HOPE/HELP trade preference program has played an integral role in this effort, strengthening the apparel sector and creating jobs throughout the country."

Western Hemisphere Subcommittee Chairwoman María Elvira Salazar underscored the significance of maintaining business operations in Haiti amid ongoing challenges: "The HOPE/HELP trade programs currently provide employment for over 10,000 Haitians." She noted that supporting economic development within Haiti aligns with U.S. strategic interests.

Congresswoman Frederica Wilson also expressed her support: "Now more than ever, the United States needs to support Haiti and its people by expanding the HOPE/HELP program." She stressed that duty-free access to Haitian apparel is vital for both countries' economies.

Marc Doyon of Gildan praised the renewal legislation: "Gildan is pleased to see the introduction of HOPE/HELP renewal legislation." He pointed out how it supports U.S. textile jobs and strengthens regional supply chains.

Maulik Radia, President of ADIH, voiced strong backing for reauthorization: "The Association des Industries d'Haïti (ADIH) strongly supports HOPE/HELP reauthorization as a lifeline for thousands of Haitian workers and their families." Radia warned about potential job losses if Congress does not act swiftly.

The Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership and Encouragement (HOPE) Act was amended by Congress in 2006 to eliminate duties on Haitian apparel exports. After a major earthquake hit Haiti in 2010, Congress expanded duty-free status under the HELP Act. Without congressional action, these programs will expire in September 2025.