Haiti trade program extended to 2028, gap refunds allowed for importers

What does this do?

HR 6504 extends a trade program that allows certain Haitian goods, primarily clothing and apparel, to enter the United States without paying import tariffs, keeping it active through December 31, 2028. The bill also restores duty-free status to products that lost eligibility due to changes in how the government classifies imported goods. Importers who paid tariffs on Haitian goods during a lapse in coverage that began around September 30, 2025 may apply for refunds by filing a request with U.S. Customs and Border Protection within 180 days of the bill becoming law.

Who does it affect?

American businesses that import Haitian goods, especially clothing retailers and manufacturers, are directly affected, as are Haitian garment workers whose employment is tied to U.S. demand for duty-free products. American consumers may be indirectly affected if import cost changes influence prices on certain clothing items.

Why does it matter?

Without the extension, Haitian apparel exports to the United States would be subject to tariffs, which could reduce U.S. purchasing of those goods. The refund provision addresses tariffs already collected during the coverage gap, affecting importers who paid those charges before the bill became law.

Where does it stand?