US allies hit with new tariffs object to Trump's forced labor claims
The U.S. administration has renewed tariffs on over 60 countries, citing concerns over forced labor practices, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from key allies including Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union. These nations have rejected the allegations, arguing that the tariffs are unjustified and will negatively impact global trade.
Why it matters
This trade policy creates significant diplomatic friction between the U.S. and its traditional allies, potentially disrupting international supply chains and trade relations.
Many of America's key allies on Friday criticized the U.S. administration's new tariffs against them, after President Trump renewed the tax on more than 60 countries just as the previous tariffs expired.
The U.S. Supreme Court had earlier this year ruled that many of the tariffs imposed under emergency powers were illegal.
The president cited lax enforcement of a ban on the use of forced labor to produce goods as his reason for renewing the tariffs, an allegation Australia and the European Union vehemently rejected.
Those targeted with the latest penalties face between 10 and 12.5 percent on almost all American imports.
Here's some reaction from around the world:
Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell said the 12.5 percent tariffs on his country's exports were "unjustified" and called it "an extremely disappointing decision."
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