U.S. Announces New Tariffs on Dozens of Countries Over Forced Labour Concerns
By Saqib S. Qureshi | SCN NEWS
The United States has unveiled a new round of tariffs on imports from 60 countries, saying the measures are aimed at pressuring governments that fail to stop goods made with forced labour from entering global supply chains.
The new duties, announced by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, replace the temporary global tariff system that was due to expire. Countries judged to have stronger forced-labour laws will face a 10% tariff, while those considered to have weaker enforcement will face 12.5% duties.
Why Is Washington Imposing the Tariffs?
The Trump administration says many trading partners have failed to prevent products made with forced labour from reaching international markets, creating unfair competition for American businesses and workers.
The tariffs are being imposed under Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act of 1974, a legal authority traditionally used to address unfair trade practices. Officials argue the new framework is designed to withstand legal challenges after earlier tariffs were struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Which Countries Are Affected?
The measures target imports from 60 economies, including major trading partners such as China, India, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Australia and New Zealand. Countries that have adopted or strengthened forced-labour import controls, including Canada, the United Kingdom and Jordan, remain at the lower 10% tariff level.
Several categories—including some energy products, fertilizers and goods already covered by separate national security tariffs—are exempt.
Global Reaction
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions.
Human rights advocates welcomed stronger action against forced labour but said enforcement should be transparent and based on clear evidence. Some governments rejected Washington's assessment, arguing they already have effective labour protections and warning the tariffs could disrupt global trade.
Trade experts say the move is likely to increase diplomatic pressure on affected countries to tighten labour standards while also adding new uncertainty to global supply chains.
Most Unique Fact
Unlike previous Trump-era tariffs that focused mainly on trade deficits or national security, this new package is officially tied to countries' enforcement of forced-labour bans, making labour rights the central justification for sweeping new import duties.