US announces tariffs on 60 countries over forced labor allegations

The United States government plans to levy new tariffs of 10% to 12.5% on imports from 60 economies, citing inadequate enforcement against forced‑labor practices. A formal comment period runs until 6 July, with a hearing scheduled for 7 July that could influence the final rates.

The list includes major trading partners such as the European Union, the United Kingdom, China, India, Japan and others. Washington argues that goods produced with forced labor give foreign producers an unfair advantage over American workers. Critics in Brussels and other capitals have called the measure “unjustified” and warned it could damage multilateral trade relations.

The action is being undertaken under Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Expansion Act after a review by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. It follows previous emergency tariffs that were partially struck down by U.S. courts, prompting the administration to seek a new legal basis. The tariffs are expected to raise compliance costs for importers and could reshape supply‑chain decisions across affected industries.