US announces tariffs on dozens of countries over forced labour concerns

The US is imposing new tariffs on imports from around 60 trading partners over claims they failed to properly stop forced labour.

The duties, ranging from 10% to 12.5%, target key economic partners – including the UK, EU, Canada, Japan, and India. They are set to go into effect on Friday.

The move is the latest escalation in the global trade war which was reignited by US President Donald Trump when he returned to office in January last year.

It comes after the US Supreme Court ruled earlier this year that many of the tariffs imposed globally under emergency powers were illegally enacted. The president has since sought other legal avenues to push through his flagship trade policy.

Trump has used tariffs to create more US manufacturing jobs and boost the American economy. But he has also used them to press other countries, such as Mexico, on non-trade issues, such as labor rules.

The White House has singled out Canadian imports in recent days, warning that goods crossing the northern border will face 50% duties.

Economists have warned that higher tariffs can make everyday goods, like coffee and microwaves, more expensive. Because taxes are paid by importing companies, those businesses often pass the extra costs on to shoppers through higher prices.

The White House insists the tariffs are needed to protect American workers and ensure fair competition.

However, business groups and affected countries are expected to push back. Many trading partners are already weighing potential legal challenges or retaliatory duties in response.

The administration is also preparing for further action. The US Trade Representative is currently investigating 16 countries – accounting for the vast majority of US imports – over claims of manufacturing overcapacity, which could pave the way for additional duties later this year.