U.S. trade representative lists Australia among 54 economies facing 12.5% tariff over forced-labor import rules

The U.S. trade representative listed Australia among 54 economies that failed to impose and effectively enforce a prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labor. The determination followed an investigation into each country’s practices. A report summarizing the findings contained no specific details on Australia.

Proposed tariff and government response A 12.5% tariff was proposed for the listed economies. Six additional countries face a lower 10% rate. A spokesperson for Australia’s trade minister said Australia maintains robust, comprehensive and world-leading legislation addressing forced labour and modern slavery.

The spokesperson added that any tariffs on Australian exports to the United States are unjustified and inconsistent with the free-trade agreement. The federal government sought urgent clarification from U.S. officials on Wednesday night.

Comment period and prior actions The United States has invited feedback on the tariffs until 6 July. Australia can use the period to press for an exemption. The 60 economies under review account for 99.4% of all imports to the United States, according to the trade representative’s report.

The Human Rights Law Centre urged the government to strengthen modern slavery laws, including a ban on imported goods produced with forced labour.