By Jessie Pang
HONG KONG (Multibagger) - The recent passing of the bipartisan Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) Certification Act by the U.S. House of Representatives could have significant implications for Hong Kong's economic relations with the United States. The bill allows the U.S. president to remove privileges and immunities of the trade offices in Washington D.C., New York, and San Francisco if they are not operating with a "high degree of autonomy" from China.
Under the Act, if the HKETOs are found to no longer meet the criteria for such privileges and immunities, they would have to cease operations in the United States within 180 days of the certification being delivered to Congress. The bill was passed overwhelmingly by a vote of 413 to 3 and now awaits approval from the U.S. Senate before it can be signed into law by President Joe Biden.
The Hong Kong government has strongly condemned the U.S. House's actions, accusing them of using the Act to undermine national security laws in Hong Kong and smear the human rights situation in the city. The government stated that the U.S. House's actions were politically motivated, in violation of international law, and interference in the affairs of Hong Kong.
The passing of this bill comes in the context of heightened tensions between the U.S. and China over issues related to Hong Kong's autonomy and human rights abuses. The bill has garnered support from various human rights organizations and activists, who see it as a necessary step in holding the Hong Kong government accountable for its actions.
Beijing imposed a national security law on Hong Kong in 2020 following pro-democracy protests in 2019, with Hong Kong subsequently passing an additional national security law earlier this year. The security laws have led to the arrest of over 300 individuals in Hong Kong.
In conclusion, the passing of the HKETO Certification Act by the U.S. House of Representatives could have far-reaching implications for Hong Kong's economic and diplomatic relations with the United States. The bill reflects growing international concern over the situation in Hong Kong and could signal a shift in how the international community approaches the issue of human rights and autonomy in the city.