The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is initiating a Section 301 investigation into China’s implementation of the U.S-China Economic and Trade Agreement, also known as the Phase One Agreement.
The investigation will determine whether China has upheld its commitments under the agreement, and if not, any burden or restriction on U.S. commerce.
“The initiation of this investigation underscores the Trump Administration’s resolve to hold China to its Phase One Agreement commitments, protect American farmers, ranchers, workers, and innovators, and establish a more reciprocal trade relationship with China for the benefit of the American people,” said USTR Representative Jamieson Greer.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) applauded the announcement, saying China has effectively closed its market to U.S. beef this year. “Without shipments to China and the premiums generated by bids from Chinese buyers, the U.S. beef industry is missing opportunities estimated at $150-$165 per head, or $4 billion annually,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom.
