FR 2025-01585

Zebra Technologies Corporation has submitted a notification to the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) Board, seeking permission to carry out specific production activities at its facility in Kenosha, Wisconsin, which is part of FTZ 41. This proposal involves utilizing both foreign and domestic materials to manufacture various computer printing products, including thermal printers and mobile computing devices. The proposed activities are strictly limited to defined materials and finished goods as outlined in the notification. The public is invited to provide comments on this proposal until March 4, 2025, with further details accessible through the FTZ Board's website.

Significant Issues and Concerns

One notable issue is the lack of a clear abstract in the document, which would help readers understand the scope and purpose of the proposed activities from the outset. This omission may cause confusion or misinterpretation of the document's intent and subjects.

Additionally, there is no discussion concerning the potential costs associated with the proposed production activities. This absence of financial detail can be critical, as understanding the economic impacts, both benefits, and expenses, is essential for stakeholders and interested parties to form a complete picture.

Furthermore, the document doesn't specify how the benefits of FTZ production activities might affect local businesses or the Kenosha community specifically. Such clarity would be valuable in assessing the local economic impact and potential job creation or displacement resulting from this initiative.

Parts of the document are extraordinarily detailed and lengthy, especially the sections listing proposed products and materials. For a lay reader or individuals unfamiliar with the technical aspects, this can make the document challenging to comprehend fully without additional context or explanation.

The use of technical trade terms like "privileged foreign status" and "AD/CVD procedures" might not be immediately comprehensible to individuals without specific knowledge of FTZ regulations and international trade laws. This makes the document less accessible to the general public, who may otherwise be interested in commenting or learning about the proposal.

Finally, while public comment is invited, the process for submitting such comments lacks clarity. It would be helpful to include instructions on what specific information should be part of these submissions to ensure that the public can effectively engage in the exchange.

Impact on the Public and Stakeholders

For the public, this document signifies a potential increase in manufacturing activities at a local level, potentially creating more job opportunities and contributing to the regional economy in Kenosha. However, without specific details on employment effects or community benefits, it remains unclear just how impactful these activities might be.

Specific stakeholders, such as local businesses, may experience competition or collaboration opportunities depending on how these FTZ activities are integrated into the local supply chain. Local government and community leaders might engage with this proposal to ensure that it aligns with regional economic development goals while observing any adverse environmental or social impacts.

In conclusion, the proposal by Zebra Technologies to expand production within the Foreign-Trade Zone 41 could have multiple implications for Kenosha and beyond. The broader public and industry stakeholders must be adequately informed and engaged throughout the review process to ensure comprehensive evaluation and support the area's economic and social ecosystems.