The United States has proposed new tariffs on imports from 60 economies, including Pakistan, over concerns about forced labour in global supply chains. The move matters because it could affect trade flows and export competitiveness. Businesses, exporters, and governments across dozens of countries may face higher costs in the US market.
The proposal, announced by the office of US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, would impose an additional 10 percent duty on imports from Pakistan and several other economies. Countries including Canada, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Taiwan are also included in the same tariff category. The measures stem from a Section 301 investigation into alleged unfair trade practices linked to forced labour.
Read more: US weighs new tariffs on major trading partners
Meanwhile, the remaining 45 economies examined by Washington could face tariffs of up to 12.5 percent. Those countries include China, India, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand. US officials argue that inadequate action against forced labour creates unfair competition for American workers and businesses.
Several trading partners rejected the allegations and criticised the proposed tariffs. European officials described the findings as unjustified, pointing to existing legislation aimed at blocking products linked to forced labour. China also rejected the claims and opposed what it called unilateral tariff measures, while India said it was engaging with Washington during the consultation process.
Read more: US proposes tariffs on Pakistan over labour concerns
The US Trade Representative will accept public comments until July 6, followed by a public hearing on July 7. The proposal remains subject to review and is not yet final. The agency has also proposed exemptions for products including energy resources, pharmaceuticals, aircraft parts, rare earths, coffee, beef, and selected agricultural goods.