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US unveils tariffs targeting forced labour in global supply chains
The Trump administration announced fresh import duties ranging from 10% to 12.5% on goods from nearly 60 trading partners, citing insufficient action against forced labour. The move covers almost all US imports and marks the second major tariff announcement since the Supreme Court invalidated earlier measures in February.
Countries respond with criticism and denial
The UK acknowledged efforts to combat forced labour but argued its laws already address the issue. China dismissed the allegations as politically motivated, while the European Union called the tariffs unjustified. Canada downplayed the impact on its exports, stating most shipments would remain unaffected.
"There is no so-called forced labour in China, and we oppose using this as an excuse for political manipulation."
Mao Ning, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson
Investigation findings and tariff breakdown
A US Trade Department probe concluded that 54 of the 60 countries lacked legal prohibitions or effective enforcement against forced labour imports. The remaining six-including Canada, the EU, and Mexico-were faulted for weak enforcement. The proposed duties target 10% on imports from 14 nations, while 45 others, including China and India, face 12.5% tariffs.
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer framed the tariffs as a measure to level the playing field for American workers, arguing that forced labour creates unfair competition.
Human rights groups question effectiveness
Amnesty International and the UK's Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner acknowledged the role of trade measures but stressed that tariffs alone cannot replace corporate accountability and stronger domestic laws. The UK imports an estimated £20 billion worth of goods annually with potential forced labour links.
"Trade measures can play a role in addressing forced labour risks, but they are not a substitute for effective enforcement."
Peter Frankental, Amnesty International
Trade negotiations and legal challenges loom
Analysts in India described the tariffs as a pressure tactic amid ongoing trade talks. Ajay Srivastava of the Global Trade Research Initiative urged India to challenge the legal basis of the duties, arguing they exceed the scope of US trade law. The EU reaffirmed its commitment to its existing trade agreement with the US, despite rejecting the tariffs as unjustified.
Background and next steps
The announcement follows a March investigation into forced labour practices among the 60 trading partners. The tariffs are not yet in effect; the administration must complete a formal process to enforce them. The move comes months after the Supreme Court struck down Trump's earlier tariffs, which he had dubbed "Liberation Day" duties. A separate 10% global tariff, set to expire in July unless extended, remains in place.
