The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a series of bills aimed at countering China’s influence. The bipartisan efforts include banning Chinese-made drones, limiting access to the U.S. market for China-linked biotech companies, strengthening sanctions, and deepening ties with Asian countries. While some measures passed along party lines, overall there is a consensus on the need to address Beijing’s power.
One controversial measure seeks to revive a program to root out Beijing’s spying in American universities. The Chinese Embassy in Washington has condemned the bills, saying they would damage bilateral relations.
Technology was a key focus of the legislation, with measures aimed at limiting the spread of Chinese technology in the U.S. and preventing Beijing from accessing American innovations. Other bills targeted spying by Beijing in U.S. intellectual property and academic institutions.
In addition, the bills addressed concerns over Chinese influence in American schools, restrictions on federal funding to universities with ties to China, and efforts to prevent Chinese ownership of American farmland. Another bill narrowly approved excludes Chinese electric cars from receiving clean-vehicle tax credits.
The House also passed measures to boost sanctions on China and deepen ties with Asia-Pacific countries. These efforts include potentially closing Hong Kong’s representative offices in the U.S. and targeting the financial assets of Chinese officials to deter aggression towards Taiwan. Overall, the legislation reflects a concerted effort to push back against China’s growing influence.
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