Story perspectives

Trump Administration Launches Trade Probes Against 16 Economies

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has opened trade investigations into 16 major economies, including China and the European Union, over alleged unfair trading practices and excess capacity.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the probes could replace tariffs ruled illegal by the Supreme Court.
The investigations target electronics and automobiles and could trigger new Section 301 tariffs; they are to finish before existing temporary tariffs expire in July.

History

Historical Context

The Trade Act of 1974, enacted under President Gerald Ford, empowered the U.S. government to impose tariffs on countries engaging in unfair trade practices. This authority, which expired in 1982 but was extended until 2010, set a precedent for current investigations into 16 economies, including China and the EU, addressing concerns over electronics and automobiles that could reshape U.S. trade policy.

1 of 2

Story summary

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has opened trade investigations into 16 major economies, including China and the European Union, over alleged unfair trading practices and excess capacity.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the probes could replace tariffs ruled illegal by the Supreme Court.
The investigations target electronics and automobiles and could trigger new Section 301 tariffs; they are to finish before existing temporary tariffs expire in July.

1 / 2