US Trump Administration Proposes Forced‑Labor Tariffs on 60 Countries

On 2 June 2026 the Trump administration announced a new trade measure that would levy tariffs of 10 % or 12.5 % on imports from 60 economies that have not prohibited goods made with forced labour. The tariff schedule is tiered: 16 countries – including the United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, the European Union, Taiwan and Argentina – would face a 10 % duty, while 45 others – notably China, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, India and Indonesia – would be charged 12.5 %. The step is taken under Section 301 of the 1974 Trade Act after a Supreme Court ruling limited the use of emergency powers, and is intended to compel trading partners to enforce bans on forced‑labour products. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the lack of action creates “unequal competition” for American firms. Certain goods such as beef, tomatoes and coffee are exempt, and a separate textile mechanism is being considered. The proposal will undergo a public comment period before it can take effect and could affect roughly 99 % of U.S. imports.