Trump Administration Imposes Forced Labor Tariffs on 60 Economies

The Trump Administration announced new tariffs on imports from 60 economies on July 24, following a United States Trade Representative investigation into the failure to enforce bans on goods produced with forced labor. These measures include tariffs on Chinese products linked to forced labor allegations.

China's Ministry of Commerce rejected the tariffs and demanded the removal of measures imposed under Section 301 of U.S. trade law. The ministry called for the United States to abandon unilateral actions, though it expressed a willingness to engage in talks based on mutual respect. China stated it will monitor U.S. actions and maintains the right to respond with necessary measures.

Domestically, the National Council of Textile Organisations criticized a textile mechanism clause that exempts apparel imports from Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Malaysia from Section 301 duties. The organization argues these exemptions favor Asian suppliers over domestic manufacturers and the Western Hemisphere. NCTO President and CEO Kim Glas noted that the U.S. textile industry lost 41 plants over the last two years and urged stricter enforcement of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act to protect domestic workers.