politics
U.S. Sets New Tariffs on Dozens of Countries Over Forced Labour
The U.S. Trade Department announced tariffs of 10-12.5 percent on imports from 60 trading partners after an investigation found most had failed to enforce bans on goods made with forced labour. The move follows a February Supreme Court ruling that struck down earlier tariffs.
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The U.S. Trade Department announced new tariffs of 10-12.5 percent on imports from 60 trading partners, citing their failure to block goods produced with forced labour. The tariffs cover nearly all goods entering the United States. Fifty-four partners were found to lack any legal prohibition on such imports, while six others had rules but did not enforce them effectively.
The investigation began in March.
Officials concluded that Canada, the EU, Britain, Indonesia, Mexico, Pakistan, Argentina, Bangladesh, Cambodia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Malaysia and Taiwan will face 10 percent duties. The remaining 45 partners, including China and India, will face 12.5 percent duties. The tariffs have not yet taken effect and require further administrative steps.
A UK government spokesperson said the country is addressing forced labour in domestic and global supply chains and continues talks with U.S. officials. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said the tariffs were expected and would not affect most Canadian exports.
International's business and human rights director Peter Frankental said trade measures can address forced labour risks but are not a substitute for enforcement and corporate accountability. The UK's Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner stated that current UK law does not go far enough to tackle forced labour in supply chains.
A temporary 10 percent tariff put in place after that ruling remains in effect until at least July.
