US slaps tariffs on 60 trade partners over forced‑labour claims

Mon Sep 14 2026 05:21:39 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The U.S. levies 10‑12.5% duties on 99.4% of imports from partners it says fail to curb forced labour.

The U.S., under President Trump, has imposed 10‑12.5% tariffs on goods from about 60 trading partners who have not banned forced‑labour production. The measure covers 99.4% of its imports and follows a court ruling that declared earlier emergency tariffs illegal. Trump’s administration argues the duties protect American workers and fair trade, while opponents warn of higher consumer prices and potential retaliation. The U.S. Trade Representative is also investigating 16 countries over over‑capacity concerns, suggesting further duties could be announced later this year.

US slaps tariffs on 60 trade partners over forced‑labour claims

President Donald Trump pointing his finger

The U.S. announced on Thursday tariffs of 10‑12.5% on goods from 60 trading partners, covering 99.4% of its imports, citing that many countries do not enforce bans on forced‑labour production. These duties follow a Supreme Court ruling that declared earlier emergency tariffs unlawful, prompting the administration to set new legal grounds.

President Trump's administration argues the measures shield American workers and create jobs, while economists warn higher taxes could raise consumer prices and that affected nations may retaliate.

The U.S. Trade Representative is also investigating 16 countries over over‑capacity claims, suggesting additional duties could be announced later this year.