Story perspectives

Trump Administration Launches Trade Investigations Against 60 Countries

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has launched Section 301 trade investigations targeting 60 countries, including China, Mexico, and European Union, following a Supreme Court ruling.
The probes aim to identify unfair trade practices, including forced labor and excess capacity.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said investigations could lead to new tariffs if unfair practices exist.
Officials aim to finish before July 2025 to replace revenue lost from struck-down tariffs.

History

Historical Context

The Trade Act of 1974 empowered the U.S. President to combat unfair trade practices, establishing Section 301 for investigations into countries like Japan. Under President Trump, this precedent resurfaced as he targeted 60 nations, including China and Mexico, for practices such as forced labor. These investigations could significantly alter U.S. trade policy and introduce new tariffs, reflecting ongoing global trade tensions.

1 of 2

Story summary

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has launched Section 301 trade investigations targeting 60 countries, including China, Mexico, and European Union, following a Supreme Court ruling.
The probes aim to identify unfair trade practices, including forced labor and excess capacity.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said investigations could lead to new tariffs if unfair practices exist.
Officials aim to finish before July 2025 to replace revenue lost from struck-down tariffs.

1 / 2