Lawmakers Advancing Trade Legislation, China Prime Target

Several key pieces of legislation have been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate in recent weeks, with potential practical implications for businesses involved in international trade, particularly with China.

The Undersea Cable Control Act (H.R. 1189), passed by the House on March 27, aims to strengthen controls on goods and technologies related to undersea cable projects, with a focus on preventing foreign adversaries, notably China, from accessing these resources. This legislation will likely result in heightened scrutiny on exports to China and a more comprehensive strategy to protect sensitive technologies.

Another notable development is the passage of the China is Not a Developing Country Act (H.R. 1107) by the House on March 27. This act aims to prevent China from receiving preferential treatment in international treaties, agreements, and organizations, potentially affecting the nation's ability to negotiate more favorable trade terms.

The Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act (H.R. 1836), introduced on March 28, includes several provisions targeting Chinese state-sponsored entities and improving the oversight of shipping exchanges. The legislation could lead to increased transparency and efficiency in the maritime logistics sector and may have implications for businesses reliant on ocean freight.

The Senate Homeland Security Committee has also reported favorably on a series of bills related to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which could impact the efficiency of port operations and the inspection process at ports of entry.

Additionally, legislation has been introduced to enhance the consideration of human rights in arms exports (S. 1025), strengthen the Food and Drug Administration's authority over foreign drug facility inspections (S. 1134), and designate airports near the U.S. northern or southern borders as ports of entry while terminating corresponding user fees (H.R. 1804).