美國337調查合法性演變及中國的對策

Legitimacy Evolution of the United States 337 Investigation and China’s Countermeasures

面對美國頻繁應用337條款實施貿易保護，中國有必要重新審視337調查的國際合法性，尋求提出挑戰的適當依據。然而隨著GATT演變為WTO，337調查的合法性標準不斷下降，337調查自身規則的完善也增加了其在WTO框架下挑戰該規則的難度。鑒於《TRIPS協定》規定過於簡單與抽象，應重點分析337條款具體制度與 《TRIPS協定》的不相符之處，嘗試在個案中對337調查的適用提出磋商和挑戰。中國政府應建立337調查動態監視預警機制，組建應急訴訟和磋商團隊。

With the frequent application of 337 investigation by the U. S. to implement trade protection, it is necessary for China to re-examine its international legitimacy, and challenge it on an appropriate basis. However, when GATT morphed into WTO, the legitimacy standard of the 337 investigation is declining; the modification of 337 investigation rules also increases the difficulties in challenging it under the WTO framework. Because TRIPS provisions are too simple and abstract, we should selectively analyze the specific rules of 337 clauses which are not consistent with TRIPS, and try to consult and challenge the application of 337 investigations in individual cases. The Chinese government should establish dynamic monitoring and early warning mechanism of 337 investigation and build up an emergency litigation and consultation team.