Overview
- USTR Jamieson Greer initiated investigations into alleged structural overproduction by 16 partners, including China, the European Union, Japan, India, Mexico, South Korea, Vietnam and Taiwan.
- The inquiry targets manufacturing sectors where state-backed output is seen outstripping demand, with cited areas spanning steel, autos, solar modules, batteries, electronics, petrochemicals and related industries.
- Public comments are due by mid-April and a hearing is scheduled for early May, with USTR aiming to finish the probes and propose remedies before the Section 122 global surcharge expires in July.
- Greer said the process could lead to new tariffs or other measures if unfair practices are found, and he described existing tariff arrangements with some partners as independent of the probes.
- A separate Section 301 investigation addressing imports linked to forced labour is expected to open shortly and could cover roughly 60 countries.