Australia's Albanese vows to contest US 12.5% forced‑labour tariff

The United States announced new tariffs on imports from 60 economies, citing inadequate action against forced‑labour in supply chains. Most countries, including Australia, face a 12.5% duty, while others receive a 10% rate. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the measures “unjustified” and said he will raise the issue with President Donald Trump “at every level” of the Australia‑US relationship. He highlighted Australia’s robust modern‑slavery laws and recent strengthening of enforcement and penalties. The Australian government plans to lobby Washington for removal of the tariff, warning it could raise costs for exporters and strain the bilateral trade relationship. Other U.S. allies such as New Zealand, Singapore and Japan have also voiced opposition, describing the duties as baseless and seeking assurances that they respect existing trade agreements.