PRBA Endorses Expansion of International Technology Agreement and Elimination of Import Duties on Rechargeable Batteries

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- PRBA—The Rechargeable Battery Association announced today that it has filed comments with the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) supporting an international proposal to eliminate both U.S. and foreign import duties on numerous technology products, including lithium ion cells and batteries used in cellular phones and other battery technologies.

"This is a win-win for PRBA members. Given the volume of battery imports, ending import duties could provide significant savings for PRBA members and make the exports of our members more competitive," PRBA Executive Director George Kerchner said. "Trade is a key issue for PRBA given the global focus of many of our members."

The ITC has launched two investigations into the proposed expansion of the International Information Technology Agreement (ITA) among the 74 participating nations that would eliminate tariffs on a specific list of technology-related goods. The ITA accord opens all markets, U.S. and foreign, to multiple technology products.  In 1996, the ITA opened markets in 42 countries to U.S. exports of computers, semiconductors, software, telecommunications equipment and other electronics products.    

In its comments, PRBA not only endorsed the ITA proposal but also recommended further broadening of the proposed battery categories to cover all lithium ion cells and batteries – not just those designed for use in cellular phones – and nickel metal hydride batteries to more accurately reflect the current trade practices within the rechargeable battery industry and without regard to end-use. "PRBA's filing will help ensure the ITC receives accurate information and data about the rechargeable battery industry," Kerchner added. A copy of PRBA's comments can be downloaded from PRBA's website at www.prba.org.

PRBA has emerged as a leading trade association and an authoritative voice in Washington and globally on international regulatory issues. Most recently, PRBA played a critical role in harmonizing U.S. and international regulations affecting the air transport of lithium batteries and consumer electronics products containing these batteries. PRBA also participates as an official Observer with the United Nations Subcommittee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and Advisor to the International Civil Aviation Organization Dangerous Goods Panel. 

About PRBA

PRBA members power the consumer electronics revolution. We deliver a safe, efficient, and essential power source for portable electronic equipment such as notebook computers, cell phones, power tools, PDAs, and MP3 players, as well as hybrid and electric vehicles and containerized lithium ion battery stationary systems. PRBA members produce approximately 70 percent of the world's lithium ion cells and account for billions of dollars in annual worldwide sales. With more than 70 members, PRBA is widely recognized as the nation's authoritative source for information on rechargeable batteries. Visit PRBA online at www.PRBA.org.

SOURCE PRBA - The Rechargeable Battery Association