NCJ Number
146508
Date Published
1991
Length
57 pages
Annotation
This report prepared at the request of Congress, examines the relationship between the United States policy of assisting Bolivia and Peru in the production of alternative crops to coca and U.S. agricultural trade.
Abstract
Prior to 1990, the United States government was restricted in its efforts to assist developing countries export agricultural products. The purpose of the restrictions was to prevent adversely affecting U.S. producers and exporters. In 1990, legislation was enacted that provided exemptions allowing aid to be provided under certain circumstances. These enactments which are described in this report, allow the Agency for International Development (AID) to financially assist countries in producing and marketing products that might reduce their dependence on crops from which illicit drugs are produced. Since that time, AID has supported programs in Bolivia and Peru to substitute alternative crops for coca. This report provides some background on the crop substitution programs is these countries and the barriers to their success. Prepared at the request of several members of Congress, the main purpose of the report is to address the issue of how possible competition with U.S. agricultural exports has affected U.S. policy in assisting alternative crops production. A second primary issue addressed is the possible impact alternative crops, particularly soybeans and citrus, would have on U.S. agricultural trade. 4 tables