Christopher Weld Discusses ‘Buy American’ Requirements in Trump’s New Executive Order

April 20, 2017

Christopher B. Weld, a partner in Wiley Rein’s International Trade Practice, was quoted by The Wall Street Journal in an April 18 article about President Trump’s wide-ranging “Buy American Hire American” Executive Order initiating a 150-day review across all federal agencies. The order is geared to ensuring strict enforcement of “Buy American” requirements by closing loopholes and limiting waivers so as to maximize the amount of domestic content used in federally-funded projects, according to the article.  Among other things, the Executive Order affirms the President’s commitment to the “melted and poured” standard, which ensures that all steel manufacturing processes occur in the United States for a product to be considered American-made.  

“The melted and poured standard is absolutely critical and ensures that the benefits of ‘Buy American’ are maximized for companies throughout the supply chain,” said Mr. Weld, who represents several domestic steel producers.

Mr. Weld pointed out that President Trump’s initial action was a good first step, but added that additional executive actions or legislation may be required to clarify the specifics of “Buy American” directives, and to ensure they are enforced.