Section 301 and the Appearance of Unilateralism

Despite extensive criticism, section 301 is a modest statute. It directs the United States Trade Representative (USTR), subject to the direction of the President, to take action if (1) the rights of the United States under a trade agreement are being denied, or (2) an act, policy, or practice of a foreign government is "unjustifiable" and burdens or restricts U.S. commerce. It also authorizes the USTR, again subject to the direction of the President, to act if (3) an act, policy, or practice of a foreign government is "unreasonable" and burdens or restricts U.S. commerce.