Key facts
- New tariffs proposed at minimum 10% on imports from 60 countries.
- Tariffs target countries failing to block products made with forced labor.
- Higher 12.5% rate proposed for specific nations.
- Move uses Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.
- Public review and hearings scheduled for June and July.
The U.S. Trade Representative has proposed a new round of tariffs, starting at a minimum of 10% and potentially reaching 12.5%, on imports from 60 trading partners. This initiative aims to rebuild trade policy by targeting countries that allegedly fail to block products made with forced labor. The proposed duties are being implemented under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, a legal pathway that requires investigations into unfair foreign trade practices. This move follows a Supreme Court decision that struck down earlier levies imposed by the Trump administration under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, forcing a pivot to slower but more durable trade authorities like Section 301. The USTR stated that the higher rate targets countries which have not effectively enforced forced-labor import bans, creating an unlevel playing field for American workers. Public review, written comments, and hearings are scheduled for June and July.