Rubio Backs Repeal of Jackson-Vanik Amendment Affecting Uzbekistan

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Washington administration supports repealing the Jackson-Vanik amendment, which applies to Uzbekistan. He spoke on 19 October at Registan Square in Samarkand, answering journalists’ questions.

Asked why the amendment has not been repealed, Rubio said the question should go to Congress. “We are in favour of repealing it,” he said, noting that many influential lawmakers back the initiative. The administration has requested repeal, but Congress has not yet considered the issue.

The amendment, added to the 1974 Trade Act, was adopted in response to emigration restrictions in the Soviet Union and other countries. It limits permanent normal trade relations for those states. Uzbekistan trades under temporary status, and full repeal requires Congress to pass a law.