The U.S. administration is considering imposing new tariffs on certain imported goods from 60 countries, citing insufficient efforts to combat forced labor practices.
According to sea-news.az a proposal prepared by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) would introduce an additional 10% import tariff on goods from 15 countries, including Canada, Mexico, and European Union member states. A higher tariff of up to 12.5% could be applied to imports from 45 other countries currently under review.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated that the initiative is intended to create a fairer competitive environment for American workers and manufacturers. He argued that the use of forced labor in some countries contributes to unfair conditions in global markets.
The proposal includes exemptions for several categories of goods. Energy products, metals, beef, coffee, and pharmaceuticals would not be subject to the new tariffs.
Public hearings on the proposal are scheduled for July 7, while the deadline for submitting comments and recommendations has been set for July 6.
If adopted, the measure could have significant implications for global trade relations and international supply chains, making it one of the more consequential trade policy initiatives currently under consideration.
