United States of America: Office of the United States Trade Representative opened consultation on Section 301 investigation into China's targeting of foundational semiconductors over alleged anticompetitive practices

On 6 January 2025, the Office of the US Trade Representative opened a public consultation on the Section 301 investigation to examine China's targeting of foundational semiconductors, until 5 February 2025. The investigation cites concerns over anti-competitive and non-market practices. It covers a range of China's non-market activities in the semiconductor sector, including how these semiconductors are incorporated into finished goods and downstream products for critical industries. The consultation seeks information on issues such as China’s anticompetitive actions, state-driven industry practices, market access restrictions, forced technology transfers, and their impact on the US. commerce. It also seeks comments on whether China’s practices are unreasonable or discriminatory, and their burden on US industries including defence, automotive, and telecommunications. It also seeks inputs on whether the practices are actionable under Section 301 of the Trade Act.