GAUGE HIERARCHY IN SU(3)(C)XSU(3)(L)XSU(3)(R) AND LOW-ENERGY IMPLICATIONS

We explore the gauge hierarchy problem within the framework of supersymmetric SU(3)c X SU(3)L X SU(3)R with a minimal set of Higgs supermultiplets. Imposition of a suitable discrete (alternatively R) symmetry ''prevents'' the electroweak Higgs doublets from becoming superheavy through renormalizable couplings. A full resolution of the problem requires consideration of the non-renormalizable couplings which play an essential role. Other key differences from the minimal supersymmetric SU(5) model include the fact that the proton is stable and that an effective 5 + 5BAR supermultiplet appears around the TeV mass scale.