Foreign Relations of the United States Diplomatic Papers, 1934, The American Republics, Volume V

614.003/80: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Minister in Guatemala (Hanna)

Washington, September 25, 1934—5 p.m.

31. Reference despatch No. 46 of September 12, 1934,⁷ from Consulate General reporting an increase in the import tariff on automobiles.

Inasmuch as Guatemala has expressed its desire to negotiate a commercial agreement with the United States, the general purpose of which it is clearly understood will be to remove or reduce existing barriers to trade, including import tariffs, the Department believes it has a right to expect that the Government of Guatemala, pending the completion of the negotiation, should refrain from increasing its import duties on products which are principally of American origin. It is desired that you point this out informally to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and report the result of your representations.

Hull

7. Not printed; it transmitted a copy of decree No. 1577, issued on September 10, 1934, by the President of Guatemala.