US House of Representatives Votes on Hong Kong Trade Offices Amid National Security Concerns
US House Action on Hong Kong Trade Offices
The Republican-led US House of Representatives voted Tuesday to advance a bill that could close Hong Kong’s diplomatic offices in the US, a crucial step on its path to becoming law. The bipartisan Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) Certification Act would require the US secretary of state to review the city’s three American trade missions – in New York, San Francisco and Washington – and strip them of privileges if they are found not to operate with a high degree of autonomy from the People’s Republic of China.
Legislative Support and Implications
The bill, sponsored by New Jersey Representative Chris Smith, passed with overwhelming support at 413-3. It now awaits approval from the Senate before reaching the president's desk. Currently, there are 14 HKETOs outside mainland China, which serve primarily for trade promotion and cultural diplomacy but are not considered diplomatic missions.
- The national security law imposed on Hong Kong in 2020 has intensified scrutiny over its autonomy.
- US lawmakers and activists have claimed these offices act as vectors for malign influence.
- Despite potentially slow progression through Congress, ongoing pressure on Hong Kong is expected to continue.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.