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
Economists say geopolitical headlines and concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz are driving volatility
A bipartisan Senate delegation recently traveled to China ahead of President Trump’s meeting in Beijing.
Trucking industry expert Lewie Pugh joins us to discuss rising diesel costs, challenges facing independent truckers, and the broader impact on agriculture and rural transportation.
The White House is reportedly moving forward with beef import tariff reductions as officials look to lower food costs for consumers.

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:

This case could influence how much leverage grain shippers have when a preferred rail outlet is blocked or priced too high.
U.S. Cattlemen’s Association President Justin Tupper joins us to discuss the DOJ packer investigation, industry competition, and the outlook for cattle producers.
Farm Bureau economist Dr. Faith Parum says EPA’s final biofuel volumes keep corn demand steady and strengthen the outlook for soybean-based diesel feedstocks.
Global soybean competition is moving deeper into crush capacity, logistics, and value-added product control.
CME Group’s Fred Seamon joins us to break down the drop in farmer sentiment, discuss the role of input costs and global factors, and share his outlook for the ag economy ahead.
Cotton margins improved slightly, even as fertilizer and fuel costs rose due to the Strait of Hormuz disruption linked to the Iran war.