Trump Administration Proposes 12.5% Tariffs on 60 Countries and EU Over Forced Labor Enforcement
The Trump administration is proposing tariffs of up to 12.5% on approximately 60 countries and the European Union, citing inadequate enforcement of forced labor bans. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated both sides remain committed to honoring existing trade agreements despite the tariff proposal. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent characterized recent inflation as temporary and tied to the Iran war, while addressing questions about defunct funds and potential currency redesigns.
The Trump administration has announced a new tariff proposal targeting around 60 countries and the European Union with rates up to 12.5%, framing the action as a response to what officials characterize as insufficient enforcement of forced labor prohibitions. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer emphasized in comments to France 24 that both the U.S. and EU remain committed to their existing trade agreement, stating "A deal's a deal" while pursuing broader trade practice reforms. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent addressed Capitol Hill concerns about inflation, describing the recent surge as a temporary phenomenon expected to end following the conclusion of the Iran war. Bessent also declined to discuss details of a now-defunct $1.8 billion fund, citing ongoing litigation, and indicated that any new $250 bill featuring Donald Trump would require Congressional authorization before Treasury production could begin.
What's missing
The specific trade practices beyond forced labor enforcement that the administration aims to address through these tariffs are not detailed. Additionally, the economic impact projections of the proposed tariffs and the timeline for implementation are not provided.
What different sources said
- SemaforCenter
Trump makes new play for tariffs
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