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HKEconomyOverlooked from the left12 days ago

Trump’s forced-labour tariffs put Southeast Asia in the firing line

The United States has proposed new tariffs targeting countries accused of using forced labor in their production processes, potentially affecting Southeast Asia's supply chains. The tariffs, ranging from 10% to 12.5%, are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to revive its trade policy agenda. Countries that have implemented measures against forced labor may face lower rates, while others could face higher penalties. Governments have until July 6 to challenge their inclusion in the proposed list, with U.S. hearings set to begin on July 7.

Southeast Asia’s extensive supply chains could be disrupted if it faces planned US tariffs over Washington’s accusations of forced labour in 60 economies, as analysts say the proposal is just a way for President Donald Trump to resurrect his trade levy agenda.

Washington said the proposed tariffs, which range from 10 per cent to 12.5 per cent, were aimed at countries that it assessed had not done enough to tackle the problem. The tariffs have not yet taken effect.

The listed economies that have imposed forced-labour import bans, partial restrictions or binding commitments to strengthen enforcement would face a lower rate, while those without such measures could face a higher rate.

The relevant governments can challenge their inclusion before a July 6 deadline through written comments, with the US scheduled to hold hearings from July 7, after which it will reach a decision.

US Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer said in a statement released on June 2: “The failure of our most important trading partners to address the importation of goods made with forced labour is unacceptable. This creates a dynamic where American workers are forced to compete globally on an unlevel playing field.”

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer speaks with reporters at the White House in April. Photo: Reuters

Read the full article at South China Morning Post →
Source document: Statement from U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer

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South China Morning PostParty-alignedRight12 days ago
Trump’s forced-labour tariffs put Southeast Asia in the firing line

The United States has proposed new tariffs targeting countries accused of using forced labor in their production processes, potentially affecting Southeast Asia's supply chains. The tariffs, ranging from 10% to 12.5%, are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to revive its trade policy agenda. Countries that have implemented measures against forced labor may face lower rates, while others could face higher penalties. Governments have until July 6 to challenge their inclusion in the proposed list, with U.S. hearings set to begin on July 7.

Bias read (Right): The article frames the U.S. action as a revival of Trump's trade agenda, suggesting a strategic motive rather than purely economic or ethical concerns. It emphasizes the 'unlevel playing field' for American workers, aligning with protectionist rhetoric common in conservative economic policies. The U

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