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
Strong ethanol production and export trends continue to support corn demand despite seasonal fuel consumption softness.
Cotton demand depends on demonstrating performance and reliability buyers can rely on, not messaging alone.
A look at the legislative year ahead as lawmakers return to Washington with a slate of trade concerns to tackle in 2026—from new Chinese tariffs on beef imports to the USMCA review this summer.

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:

Record ethanol production and improving blending demand continue to support corn usage despite rising short-term inventories.
Tight beef cow supplies and steady demand point to continued record-level cull cow prices in 2026.
A disciplined, breakeven-based marketing plan helps protect margins and reduce risk, even when markets remain unpredictable.
Expanded school access to whole milk provides modest but reliable demand support for U.S. dairy producers.
The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 agenda centers on labor stability, biosecurity, and economic resilience for family farms. Expanded DMC coverage improves risk protection for dairy operations facing tighter margins.
Agronomy experts explain why standing crop residue protects soil and reduces costs for crop growers, while shredding often yields little benefit at higher costs.