USTR initiates Section 301 probe into Vietnam’s currency, timber practices

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative plans to initiate a Section 301 investigation into Vietnam’s timber imports and currency practices, USTR announced late on Friday. USTR will examine Vietnam’s trade practices “related to the import and use of timber that is illegally harvested or traded” as well as the country’s “acts, policies, and practices that may contribute to the undervaluation of its currency and the resultant harm caused to U.S. commerce,” according to an Oct. 2 statement. As part...