USTR Opens Section 301 Investigation Into China Compliance

The review signals renewed scrutiny of China’s agricultural trade pledges and could reshape farm export opportunities depending on its outcome.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has launched a Section 301 investigation into whether China has failed to honor its commitments under the 2020 “Phase One” trade agreement. The review will assess Beijing’s follow-through on reforms in agriculture, intellectual property, technology transfer, and financial services — areas central to the deal’s original intent.

USTR Jamieson Greer said the move underscores President Trump’s determination to “hold China to its commitments” and protect American farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers. The probe will also examine the impact of any non-compliance on U.S. commerce and whether additional enforcement steps are justified.

The Phase One agreement sought to expand Chinese purchases of U.S. goods and reduce non-tariff barriers, but officials say Beijing’s follow-through has lagged despite years of engagement. USTR will accept public comments and hold a hearing as part of the process.

Farm-Level Takeaway: The review signals renewed scrutiny of China’s agricultural trade pledges and could reshape farm export opportunities depending on its outcome.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Expert
Related Stories
Grain movement remains active, but high ocean freight and diesel costs continue to pressure export logistics.
The Meat Institute says meat sales reached a record $112 billion last year as protein demand remained strong nationwide.
National Potato Council CEO Kam Quarles says potato wart could have devastating consequences for U.S. growers and export markets.
Trade officials discussed export growth, biofuel opportunities and market access during the National Restaurant Association Show.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

USDA says growing soybean output and expanding biofuel demand are helping drive the increase.
Industry leaders say restored access is a major step forward, though exports remain well below previous levels.
Texas A&M economist John Robinson says speculative buying helped push ICE cotton futures sharply higher.
Changes to several Risk Management Agency programs are set to begin with the 2027 crop year.
For farmers, better data may not solve every local rail problem, but it can make service failures easier to document.
Smaller exporter crops and lower global stocks could keep wheat markets sensitive to weather, trade, and shifts in demand.