U.S. Launches Section 301 Investigations into Global Manufacturing Overcapacity
Trade Update • March 17, 2026
Key Points
- U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer initiated Section 301(b) investigations into structural excess capacity and production practices in 16 major economies.
- Countries under review include China, the European Union, India, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, and several Southeast Asian and European partners.
- Investigations will determine whether foreign acts, policies, or practices are unreasonable, discriminatory, or restrict U.S. commerce.
- Public comments on the investigations open March 17, 2026, with submissions due April 15, 2026, and a public hearing scheduled to start May 5, 2026.
- The USTR may recommend tariffs or other trade remedies if unfair practices are confirmed.
On March 11, 2026, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has launched investigations under Section 301(b) of the Trade Act of 1974 to examine structural excess capacity and production practices in 16 economies. The goal is to identify whether these practices unfairly burden U.S. commerce or displace domestic manufacturing. The probe targets China, the European Union, India, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, and other countries in Asia and Europe. Public input will be accepted before hearings begin in May, and findings could result in tariffs or trade remedies to protect U.S. manufacturers.
Countries Under Investigation
The Section 301 investigations target 16 economies:
- China
- European Union (EU)
- Singapore
- Switzerland
- Norway
- Indonesia
- Malaysia
- Cambodia
- Thailand
- South Korea
- Vietnam
- Taiwan
- Bangladesh
- Mexico
- Japan
- India
Official Statement
“The United States will no longer sacrifice its industrial base to other countries that may be exporting their problems with excess capacity and production to us. Today’s investigations underscore President Trump’s commitment to reshore critical supply chains and create good-paying jobs for American workers across our manufacturing sectors.”
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What Happens Next?
- March 17, 2026: Docket opens for written public comments.
- April 15, 2026: Deadline to submit comments and requests to appear at hearings.
- May 5, 2026: Public hearings begin.
A pre-publication version of the Federal Register Notice is available on the USTR website.
Dockets for submitting comments on the investigation and for requesting to appear at the public hearing are available on the USTR comments portal.
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