Comments on the Section 301 Investigations of Acts, Policies, and Practices of Certain Economies

Today, the Council submitted public comments to USTR regarding Section 301 investigations into manufacturing overcapacity driven by weak environmental standards. The comments argue:

• Low environmental standards of certain U.S. trade partners constitute unreasonable policies or practices that contribute to structural excess capacity.

• The resulting excess capacity depresses prices and denies U.S. manufacturers fair market opportunities. 

• The continued operation of high-polluting firms sends pollution across borders, liminiting U.S. business expansion and causing adverse health effects that reduce labor force participation.