U.S. imposes 10% tariffs on Canada, 59 other countries over forced labor concerns

The United States has implemented new tariffs, including a 10% levy on Canada and 17 other nations, citing concerns over the "failure" to prevent imports of goods produced with forced labor. The Trump administration's move targets 60 countries overall, with the European Union facing tariffs between 10% and 12.5%.

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated the action aims to address human rights abuses and trade distortions, ultimately improving worker welfare. Global News is seeking clarification on whether the tariffs will apply to goods traded under the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).

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Today’s action will begin to correct what is both a human rights abuse and distortive trade practice to improve the welfare of workers everywhere.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described the tariffs as "not a surprise," noting that the U.S. had been planning them for months. He previously indicated that CUSMA-compliant goods would be exempt. Canada has introduced legislation to strengthen forced labor protections in its supply chains, though it has not yet passed into law.

The new tariffs coincide with the expiration of temporary worldwide levies and are enacted under Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act of 1974, a provision previously used to impose tariffs on China. This action comes as Canada also faces potential 50% tariffs on various products, announced earlier this week by President Trump in response to Canadian retaliatory measures and dairy import quotas.

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This is not a surprise. It’s something that the U.S. has been planning for a few months.