US lifts tariffs on Chile, India, Malaysia, Sri Lanka over forced‑labour rules

The United States announced a series of tariff measures tied to forced‑labour import prohibitions. Chile faces a 12.5% tariff on 20 products, including fresh grapes, salmon and bottled wine, while copper and lithium remain exempt. The increase adds roughly $65 million to annual costs for Chile’s salmon industry and raises price pressures for fruit and wine exporters.

India’s textile and apparel sector is subject to a 10% Section 301 duty, putting Indian exporters at a competitive disadvantage compared with Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia and Malaysia, which are eligible for quota‑free treatment. Malaysia received a 10% tariff, its lowest among affected economies, and officials say it will not undermine the country’s competitiveness.

Sri Lanka was assigned a 10% tariff on most exports, a rate lower than the 12.5% applied to many peers. Exporters welcome the parity with regional rivals such as Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, viewing it as a level‑playing field for apparel, tea, rubber and other goods. The measures collectively affect key export sectors and underscore Washington’s use of trade tools to enforce labour standards.