Key facts
- US proposed tariffs of up to 12.5% on imports from 60 countries.
- Tariffs are based on a Section 301 investigation into failure to curb trade in goods made with forced labor.
- Norway and the EU rejected the U.S. assessment.
- Public comments on the proposed tariffs are accepted through July 6, with a hearing on July 7.
The Trump administration has proposed new tariffs of up to 12.5% on imports from 60 economies, including China, India, and the EU, after determining they had failed to adequately curb trade in goods made with forced labor. This action stems from a Section 301 unfair trade practices investigation, aimed at rebuilding tariffs previously struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court. Norway has rejected the U.S. assessment as unfounded, with its Foreign Minister stating the country has strong legislation to prevent forced labor. Similarly, the European Union described the U.S. findings as 'utterly absurd,' highlighting its own 2024 law to ban imports of forced labor products. Business leaders expressed concerns that the U.S. move creates confusion and may not effectively combat modern slavery. The USTR is accepting public comments on the proposed tariffs until July 6, with a hearing scheduled for July 7. Exemptions are proposed for energy, rare earths, certain metals, beef, coffee, fruits, vegetables, pharmaceuticals, organic chemicals, and aircraft parts, alongside a potential textile mechanism.