The U.S. imposed Section 301 tariffs after concluding 60 economies failed to enforce forced-labor bans.
Why it matters: The move could alter costs, sourcing and compliance for import-heavy companies. It also signals a broader trade step tied to forced-labor enforcement, not just tariff policy.
- The U.S. Trade Representative announced final action on July 23, 2026 under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.
- The tariffs will be 10% or 12.5% and apply to imports from 60 economies.
- AP reported the covered trading partners account for 99% of U.S. imports.
- The White House said the investigations began March 12, 2026, with public comments through July 6 and hearings July 7-9.
The U.S. Trade Representative said the administration is imposing tariffs on imports from 60 economies after finding they failed to impose and effectively enforce prohibitions on goods produced with forced labor. The action was announced July 23, 2026 under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.
The White House said the investigations started March 12, 2026 and moved through a public comment period that ended July 6, followed by hearings July 7-9. In its action, the administration said the tariffs respond to what it described as failures to impose and effectively enforce a prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labor. White House action
The USTR fact sheet said some products are exempt, including certain raw materials, goods that could cause economy-wide disruptions, products unavailable in sufficient U.S. quantities or at reasonable prices, and some products from Argentina, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Ecuador, El Salvador, the European Union, Guatemala, Indonesia, Jordan, Malaysia, Switzerland, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. It also said some articles are exempt if the tariffs may not materially contribute to eliminating the actionable practices. USTR fact sheet
AP reported the tariffs cover 60 trading partners accounting for 99% of U.S. imports. The action comes as the administration leans on Section 301 as a legal basis after earlier tariff efforts were tied up in litigation over emergency trade powers. AP report Axios report
By the numbers
- 10% to 12.5% - tariff rates announced by the U.S.
- 60 economies - the scope of the Section 301 action.
- 99% - share of U.S. imports represented by the covered trading partners, according to AP.
Yes, but: The USTR fact sheet says exemptions apply, but the full business impact will depend on which products and country-specific carve-outs are actually covered.