The United States has imposed new tariffs on 60 countries, including China and key allies like the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand, citing concerns over forced labor. The tariffs, ranging from 10% to 12.5%, took effect on Friday, replacing an expiring global duty rolled out earlier this year.
China’s Response
China condemned the tariffs, calling them unilateral and warning against a trade war. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated, "We oppose all forms of unilateral tariff measures. Tariff wars and trade wars are not in the interests of any party."
US Justification
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the tariffs enforce a forced labor import ban, stating, "It is well past time for our trading partners to do the same." The tariffs exempt major categories like energy and many foods but cover over 99% of imports to the US.
Allies’ Reactions
Several US allies criticized the tariffs, calling them unjustified. Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell said, "We believe we do take the issue of modern slavery seriously," while New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called the tariffs "extremely disappointing." The EU’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas questioned the rationale, noting that EU labor laws are stricter than those in the US.
Background
The tariffs come after the US Supreme Court struck down many of Trump’s earlier duties in February, limiting his ability to impose steep levies. The new measures follow a truce between the US and China after a meeting between Presidents Trump and Xi Jinping last October. However, tensions have resurfaced with the latest tariffs.