U.S. Says Hong Kong’s Autonomy Is Gone, Sowing China Trade Doubt

The Trump administration said it could no longer certify Hong Kong’s political autonomy from China, a move that could trigger sanctions and have far-reaching consequences on the former British colony’s special trading status with the U.S.

Secretary of State Michael Pompeo announced the decision Wednesday, a week after the government in Beijing declared its intention to pass national security legislation curtailing the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong citizens. The National People’s Congress, China’s legislature, is expected to pass the measure later on Thursday.

“Hong Kong does not continue to warrant treatment under United States laws in the same manner ...