U.S. Representative Ed Case has launched an important initiative aimed at enhancing economic relationships between the United States and Pacific Island nations. The proposed legislation, referred to as the “Promoting Regional Opportunities for Sustainable Prosperity and Economic Resilience in the Pacific Act” or PROSPER Act, focuses on negotiating free trade agreements with these island nations and reinstating duty-free treatment for select imported goods.
Case, a Democrat from Hawaii, stresses that bolstering economic diplomacy with Pacific Island nations is essential for preserving U.S. influence in the Indo-Pacific region. He stated, “The Pacific islands, spread across the vast Pacific Ocean, are key partners in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific and strengthening mutual economic, security, and cultural ties across countries sharing mutual values and goals.” As a founding co-chair of the Congressional Pacific Islands Caucus, he is dedicated to fostering collaboration with these nations.
The PROSPER Act not only aims to strengthen trade relations but also serves as a strategic counter to China’s growing influence in the Pacific. This initiative echoes recommendations from the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission’s 2025 annual report, which suggests increasing economic assistance to Pacific Island nations to support U.S. national security interests. The legislation is inspired by priorities set by the Pacific Islands Forum, which emphasizes the necessity of preferential trade agreements to overcome issues like limited competitiveness and geographical isolation.
Should the PROSPER Act be implemented, it would reinstigate duty-free benefits for a range of exports from eligible Pacific Island countries, a benefit that had been available under the Generalized System of Preferences until its expiration in 2020. Key exports from these islands, such as tuna, cane sugar, ginger, and taro, would once again benefit from preferential treatment in U.S. markets.
Furthermore, the act directs the U.S. president to develop a plan for negotiating free trade agreements with island governments and to establish a dedicated trade facilitation program aimed at promoting inclusive economic growth, job creation, and improved living standards in the region.
Case highlights the mutual advantages of this cooperation, stating, “It is in our mutual best interests that we develop, maintain, and grow our relationships across all levels, of which economic advancement is especially important.” He underscores the significance of the Indo-Pacific in the broader context of global economic and geopolitical competition. The 2025 National Security Strategy reflects this outlook, identifying the region as a critical arena for the next century and emphasizing the urgent need for a strong U.S. economic strategy.
With the PROSPER Act, Case asserts that the initiative would result in low costs for the United States while providing significant strategic benefits, especially in light of China’s increased influence efforts. “My bill, PROSPER in the Pacific, would offer a visible alternative to Beijing’s approach by focusing on economic partnership instead of debt-trap diplomacy,” he declared, all while promoting private-sector development and market-based economies in collaboration with Pacific Island nations.
This initiative signals a hopeful and proactive approach to U.S.-Pacific relations, aiming to foster shared prosperity and resilience in the region while reinforcing the deep connections between these nations.