The Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA) has submitted comments to the U.S. Trade Representative as part of the review for the upcoming Special 301 report. This annual report assesses trade barriers affecting U.S. exporters.

CCIA's submission urges the USTR to highlight countries that do not fully respect intellectual property exceptions and limitations, discriminate against U.S. content, or undermine trade secret protections. Such practices are seen as obstacles for American exporters. CCIA also plans to testify at a public hearing scheduled for February 19.

U.S. online service providers play a crucial role in exporting intellectual property and contributing positively to the services trade balance.

Jonathan McHale, CCIA Vice President of Digital Trade, stated: “Foreign jurisdictions are increasingly targeting U.S. IP-intensive exports through extractive policies seeking to benefit domestic competitors. Mandatory content quotas and streaming funding obligations, online news link taxes, and forced tech transfers all undermine U.S. digital leadership around the world."

McHale further noted that several countries fail to uphold international agreements critical to internet functionality: "The Special 301 report serves as an ideal venue for the United States to begin investigating and addressing these barriers to bring relief to U.S. exporters and workers.”