US imposes new tariffs on 60 trading partners over forced labor concerns

The United States on Friday began imposing tariffs of 10% to 12.5% on imports from 60 trading partners, the Trump administration confirmed, citing concerns over forced labor practices. The new levies replace a temporary global duty that had been in place since the Supreme Court struck down the administration's original tariff regime in February.

The new tariff scheme covers roughly 99% of all goods entering the United States, according to the Office of the US Trade Representative. Countries from Latin America to Asia are assessing how the fresh duties will affect their exporters, with some, like Paraguay, exempted entirely while others, including Brazil and Colombia, brace for significant cost increases.

Trade analysts say the move underscores Washington's continued reliance on tariffs as a policy tool despite earlier legal setbacks. Businesses across affected economies are recalculating supply chains and pricing, while some governments and trading partners could mount fresh legal challenges to the new duties in the months ahead.