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
Rail rulings, export terminal access, and equipment rules are becoming bigger factors in grain shipping costs and reliability.
Higher ocean freight rates can add export cost pressure even when grain demand remains active.
Weekly export movement stayed solid, with corn and sorghum continuing to show the strongest overall pace.
House lawmakers push toward a Farm Bill vote as debate grows over E15, Prop 12, and input costs, with farmers seeking certainty and policy updates.

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:

Steady Panama Canal operations help support more predictable shipping conditions for global agriculture.
Lower slaughter numbers reduced 2025 red meat output even with heavier cattle and hogs.
Diversified risk tools help protect farm income.
Grain movement stayed active, with barges showing the strongest weekly gain while rail and ocean signals remained mixed.
The Supreme Court’s ruling could affect pesticide warning claims well beyond Roundup. Richard Gupton with the Ag Retailers Association joins us to explain the importance of federal pesticide labeling standards and discuss the potential impact on the ag industry and supply chain.
Rural population growth supports long-term stability of the ag workforce.