The US Congress has renewed a ban on imports from Myanmar for another year, seeking to pressure the military regime over human rights and democracy as well as alleged ties to North Korea. The Senate voted almost unanimously to extend the sanctions, a week after the House took similar action. The bill now goes to President Barack Obama, who is expected to sign it despite his administration's engagement with Myanmar. The law bans trade with companies tied to the ruling military in Myanmar. It also freezes such firms' assets and instructs the United States to block international loans for the isolated state.