Overview

• The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Certification Act requires annual reviews of the city's trade offices in the U.S. for autonomy from China.
• If the offices are found to lack sufficient autonomy, they must close within 180 days.
• China and Hong Kong have condemned the bill, accusing the U.S. of politicizing economic cooperation and interfering in internal affairs.
• Supporters of the bill argue it is a necessary measure to demonstrate solidarity with Hong Kong citizens facing persecution.
• The bill still needs to pass the Senate and be signed by President Joe Biden to become law, amid heightened U.S.-China tensions.