The Office of the United States Trade Representative proposed additional Section 301 duties on June 2, 2026, after finding that 60 economies had failed to effectively ban imports of goods made with forced labour.
USTR said economies with existing prohibitions, partial regimes, or commitments through reciprocal trade agreements would face a proposed 10 percent additional duty. That tier includes Canada, the European Union, Mexico and Taiwan among others.
A proposed 12.5 percent rate would apply to 46 other economies, including China, India, Japan and South Korea. The agency opened a public comment period through July 6 and scheduled a hearing for July 7 before any final determination.
The proposal follows investigations launched on March 12, 2026. USTR also outlined a textile mechanism that could allow limited apparel imports at reduced rates. Several governments disputed the findings, and the announced rates remain proposals rather than enacted tariffs.
NBC and other outlets noted the action arrives before a July 24 expiration of separate temporary U.S. tariffs. USTR documents list product exemptions including certain energy goods, pharmaceuticals and aircraft parts.
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Sources:
Just Security – A Forum on Law, Rights, and U.S. National Security