"The investigation focuses on economies where we have evidence of structural overcapacity in multiple manufacturing sectors. This is reflected in large, persistent trade surpluses or underutilized production capacity," Greer explained.
The investigation, based on Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 concerning unfair trade practices, could lead to new tariffs as early as this summer. The 16 economies under investigation are China, the European Union, India, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Switzerland, and Norway.
This move aims to restore import tariff pressure after the US Supreme Court last month rejected tariffs President Donald Trump imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
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US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer testifies before the Senate Finance Committee in 4/2025. *Photo: AFP*
Greer also stated that on 12/3, he initiated another investigation under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, aiming to ban the import of goods produced with forced labor into the US. This investigation involves over 60 countries.
The US had previously tightened imports of solar panels and other goods from Xinjiang (China) under a law former President Joe Biden signed. The new investigation could extend these measures to other countries.
Greer stated he hopes to complete the investigations before the temporary tariffs currently applied by the US expire in July. Following the Supreme Court's ruling, Trump signed an executive order imposing an additional 10% import tariff for 150 days, citing authority under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.
Therefore, the investigations will be fast-tracked. The deadline for public comments is 15/4, and a public hearing is scheduled for 5/5.
These investigations are seen as a way for the Trump administration to restore import tariff pressure. Greer said the administration had signaled this move long ago, so it should not surprise trade partners. He urged economies to adhere to agreements already reached.
He stated that Trump is determined to pursue import tariff policies and "seek to address unfair trade practices." "He seeks to reduce trade deficits and protect American manufacturing. We have many tools to do that," Greer said.
The investigations were announced as a group of US officials led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent prepares to meet Chinese officials in Paris this week. They will discuss issues related to the meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing at the end of March.
Ha Thu (according to Reuters)
