Washington tightens its trade policy... New tariffs hit 60 trading partners

The United States has announced new tariffs ranging from 10% to 12.5% on imports from 60 trading partners, in a move it links to combating the use of forced labor and reinforcing the principle of reciprocity in international trade.

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) explained that countries that adopt and enforce a ban on the import of products linked to forced labor will be subject to a 10% tariff, while a 12.5% rate will be imposed on countries that have not adopted such measures.

The office noted that these countries account for about 99.4% of total U.S. imports, stressing that the decision comes as part of the implementation of President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy, aimed at confronting unfair trade practices, expanding opportunities for U.S. exports, and entrenching the principle of reciprocity in trade relations.