US Replaces Global Tariff with New Duties Targeting Forced Labor

The United States is implementing a significant shift in its trade policy, replacing a blanket 10% global tariff with new duties targeting specific countries. Effective immediately, over 80 of the U.S.'s major trading partners will face tariffs ranging from 10% to 12.5%. This move, announced by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, is framed as a measure to address forced labor practices and correct trade distortions.

Greer stated that the objective is to "rectify distortions in international trade and crack down on human rights violations, which should ultimately improve working conditions worldwide." The tariffs are being imposed under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. Countries deemed to have more satisfactory legislative stances on forced labor, including EU member states, the UK, and Canada, will face a 10% tariff. Other nations will be subject to the higher 12.5% rate. Exemptions are in place for certain goods such as oil, gas, and fertilizers, as well as products already covered by sector-specific tariffs.

This new tariff regime replaces a temporary 10% global tariff that was introduced after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled parts of the previous tariff system unlawful. While the White House champions protectionism as a tool for domestic industry and job growth, critics warn of potential widespread price increases. Despite consumer prices reaching a three-year high earlier in the year, Greer denied that the administration's tariff policy was the primary driver, pointing to a decrease in core inflation.

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cieľom tohto kroku je napraviť deformácie v medzinárodnom obchode a zakročiť proti porušovaniu ľudských práv, čo by malo v konečnom dôsledku zlepšiť podmienky pracujúcich na celom svete.