Even as Washington’s Metro runs quieter during the government shutdown, NAFTZ staff and our government affairs advisors from Sorini & Samet were on the ground the week of October 13, ensuring the FTZ community’s priorities remain front and center. Despite limited federal operations, key agencies and congressional offices continued to meet and engage on issues vital to the program.

Congressional staff—working without pay—remain accessible for virtual meetings. In discussions with staff for both the Senate Finance Committee and the House Ways & Means Committee, NAFTZ reinforced the need to remove the PF status restrictions imposed under the 2025 tariff executive orders. Lawmakers are increasingly recognizing the impact of these tariffs on U.S. businesses and are beginning to explore potential solutions. As attention turns toward the 2026 midterms, this is a critical moment for members to communicate how trade policies are affecting their operations.

NAFTZ also addressed delays in production authority decisions with both Congress and the Department of Commerce. Commerce officials noted that the FTZ Board process has recently been reviewed and improved, with multiple decisions awaiting Treasury’s consideration prior to the shutdown. Some Commerce staff are assessing whether publication of these decisions can continue during the funding lapse. If publication can occur during the shutdown, NAFTZ members may see progress soon; otherwise, movement will pause until government funding is restored.

With FTZ Board staff furloughed, no new requests will be processed until operations resume.

Finally, NAFTZ is preparing comments for USTR’s upcoming USMCA review. In a meeting with the Mexican Embassy, officials reaffirmed Mexico’s commitment to maintaining the trilateral agreement. USTR staff expressed confidence that a report to the U.S. Congress will follow promptly after the comment period and public hearing on November 17.

Even with Washington operating at reduced capacity, NAFTZ continues to advocate for the FTZ community—advancing discussions on tariff relief, production authority, and the USMCA review. Member engagement is key to strengthening this advocacy. If your company is affected by current tariff policies, awaiting production authority decisions, or interested in contributing to the USMCA review, please contact Melissa Irmen at mirmen@naftz.org to share your input or learn how to get involved.