Trending Now - US Initiates Trade Probes Under Section 301 Targeting Multiple Countries

WHO:

U.S. President Donald Trump

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer

China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun

European Parliament trade committee chair Bernd Lange

Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara

WHAT:

The Trump administration launched two trade investigations under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.

The investigations target excess industrial capacity and forced labor in 16 major trading partners.

Countries involved include China, the European Union, India, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Switzerland, and Norway.

Canada was not included in the investigations.

The investigations will involve collecting written submissions, holding hearings, and consulting the countries involved.

If unfair practices are found, the U.S. could impose higher tariffs, service fees, or other trade restrictions.

WHERE:

The investigations are being conducted by the United States, affecting multiple countries globally.

WHEN:

The announcement of the investigations was made on March 12th, 2026.

The Supreme Court struck down Trump’s previous "reciprocal tariff" policy in February 2026.

WHY:

The investigations were initiated to rebuild tariff pressure after the Supreme Court's decision.

The U.S. aims to examine whether the trade policies of the targeted countries unfairly disadvantage American businesses.

HOW:

The investigations will gather evidence through public comments, consultations with the countries concerned, and hearings with industry stakeholders.

The USTR will focus on economies exhibiting structural excess capacity and production in various manufacturing sectors.

(UPDATED March 12, 2026 17:20 UTC)

Today, President Trump announced the launch of two trade investigations under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, targeting excess industrial capacity and forced labor in 16 major trading partners, including China, the European Union, and Japan, among others. The investigations will involve collecting written submissions, holding hearings, and consulting with the countries involved, and if unfair practices are identified, the U.S. could impose higher tariffs or other trade restrictions. This move comes after the Supreme Court struck down Trump's previous "reciprocal tariff" policy in February, as the administration seeks to rebuild tariff pressure and ensure that trade policies do not unfairly disadvantage American businesses.