The trade representative stated, “It’s well past time for our trading partners” to ban the import of goods produced with forced labor.
President Donald Trump’s administration is imposing new tariffs on 60 countries after an investigation under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, conducted by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), showed that they have not enforced bans on imports of products made with forced labor. The action is intended to spur U.S. trading partners to implement and enforce prohibitions on importing goods produced by forced labor.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated, “The United States has had a forced labor import ban for nearly a century, and rigorously enforces it; it’s well past time for our trading partners to do the same.”
The USTR explained that the move “will begin to correct what is both a human rights abuse and distortive trade practice to improve the welfare of workers everywhere. I am encouraged by the trading partners who have moved quickly to adopt forced labor import prohibitions, and look forward to ensuring their effective enforcement.”
The investigation by the trade representative began in March and concluded last month. The new tariffs were announced just ahead of the expiration of President Trump’s global tariffs.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For President Trump to be led by the Lord as he makes trade and economic decisions.
- For discernment for Trade Representative Greer as he evaluates U.S. trade and international commerce.
Sources: The White House, MS Now, The Hill
