Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) Certification Act

# Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) Certification Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would require the U.S. State Department to certify that Hong Kong's Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) in the United States operates with genuine autonomy from the Chinese government before it can continue functioning. If the State Department cannot provide this certification, the bill would require HKETO to close its U.S. offices. The certification would need to be renewed periodically. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions:** The bill primarily affects HKETO, which operates as Hong Kong's official trade and economic representation in the United States, and indirectly affects U.S.

businesses and trade relationships with Hong Kong. It reflects concerns about whether HKETO operates independently or under direct control of Beijing, particularly following political changes in Hong Kong in recent years. The certification requirement would give Congress and the State Department oversight authority over the office's operations. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill remains in committee and has not been voted on by the full Senate. No action has been taken since its introduction.