616.003/393

The Secretary of State to the Chargé in El Salvador ( Fisher )

No. 132

Sir: The Department has received an unnumbered telegram, dated June 28, 1935 (6 p.m.) from the Consulate General in San Salvador,11 [Page 546] reporting that after July 1, 1935, Salvadoran import duties, which are stated in dollars, must be paid at the rate of Colones 2.50 per dollar. The previous rate had been Colones 2.20 per dollar, hence the change in the conversion basis represents a general tariff increase of 13.6 per cent, figured in colones.

The Department doubts that any useful purpose would be served by representations calling the Salvadoran Government’s attention to the inconsistency of such a tariff increase at a time when the two countries are in the process of negotiating a trade agreement. It is believed, however, that this Government’s attitude in the matter might appropriately be made clear in an informal manner, and on a suitable occasion, during the course of the direct negotiations which Minister Corrigan will initiate following his return to San Salvador.

Very truly yours,

For the Secretary of State:
Sumner Welles
  1. Not printed.