USTR initiated a Section 301 investigation on October 24, 2025, concerning China’s implementation of commitments under the Phase One Agreement.

A Section 301 investigation is a formal review by the United States Trade Representative (USTR) of a foreign government’s acts, policies, or practices that may be unreasonable, discriminatory, or burdensome to U.S. commerce. In this case, the review concerns China’s implementation of commitments under the Phase One Agreement. An investigation is not, by itself, proof that additional duties or another trade remedy will apply.

A measure of this type may affect importers of Chinese-origin goods if USTR later takes action, such as imposing additional duties or other trade measures. The key professional terms to understand are investigation, trade action, country of origin, tariff classification (HTSUS subheading), and additional duty. Whether a product is covered generally depends on the official measure language and product classifications—not merely on the seller’s location or the product’s brand.

What to check

• Check the official USTR notice and any subsequent implementation notices to determine whether the investigation led to a trade action.
• Verify the product’s country of origin under U.S. customs rules; shipping from another country does not necessarily change Chinese origin.
• Confirm the correct HTSUS classification, including all relevant digits, because coverage is often defined by tariff subheadings and product descriptions.
• Review the effective date, scope, exclusions, and any applicable product-specific instructions in official Customs and Border Protection guidance before entry.
• Ask a customs broker or trade counsel to review origin, classification, scope, and documentation when the product may fall near the measure’s boundaries.