Today, Chairman John Moolenaar (R-MI) of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party and Congressman Tom Suozzi (D-NY) introduced the Restoring Trade Fairness Act. This bipartisan bill aims to revoke China's Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR). The introduction follows President Trump's executive order directing an assessment of legislative proposals regarding trade relations with China.
In 2000, Congress extended PNTR status to China, anticipating that it would lead to fair trading practices. However, according to critics, this expectation has not been met. Over two decades, American manufacturing has declined while intellectual property theft by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has allegedly increased.
Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and Jim Banks (R-IN) have introduced similar legislation in the Senate.
"The Restoring Trade Fairness Act is a critical step toward ending the unfair economic practices of the Chinese Communist Party that have hurt American workers and weakened our national security," said Chairman Moolenaar. He added that the bill "will safeguard U.S. national security, enhance supply chain resilience, and bring manufacturing jobs back to America."
Moolenaar further stated that bipartisan consensus recognizes the need to reset economic relations with China. He expressed gratitude for collaboration from Congressman Suozzi, Senator Cotton, and Senator Banks.
Suozzi remarked, "This bipartisan bill makes the message clear — the Chinese Communist Party cannot receive preferential tariff treatment." He criticized China's trade practices as harmful to American industry.
Senator Cotton commented on China's PNTR status: "This comprehensive repeal of China’s PNTR status and reform of the U.S.-China trade relationship will protect American workers."
The background section notes bipartisan consensus on tariff measures over three presidential administrations. The Restoring Trade Fairness Act seeks to codify these measures into law.
A recent report from the United States International Trade Commission indicates that Section 301 tariffs have reduced reliance on imports from China without significantly impacting inflation in key sectors like electronics and automotive parts.
The bill proposes several measures including ending PNTR for China and establishing new tariff rates phased over five years. It also includes provisions for strategic goods based on specific lists from current U.S. administration plans.
Oren Cass from American Compass highlighted concerns about America's economic reliance on China: "Chairman Moolenar’s bill...will put the United States on track to restore balance."
Zach Mottl of Coalition for a Prosperous America supported revoking China's MFN status: "Strengthening America’s domestic industrial capacity is paramount."
Eric Axel from AMMA emphasized issues with Chinese-made medical supplies: "Empowering ‘Made in the USA’ isn’t just patriotic—it’s practical."
The proposed legislation marks a significant move in U.S.-China trade relations amid ongoing debates over economic policy and national security.
