Nations push back on forced labor findings

Nations push back on forced labor findings centers on growing resistance to U.S. claims that countries and industries are not doing enough to eliminate forced-labor goods from supply chains. Ahead of new U.S. tariffs, foreign governments argue they already have domestic restrictions or trade-related measures in place. The article says the Trump administration plans to shift to alternative tariff authorities after Supreme Court action in February, and has launched trade investigations that could support new duties; an initial report recommended 10% to 12.5% tariffs on 60 trading partners. A three-day hearing later this week will allow officials from 16 countries to defend their records. It cites Kazakhstan’s submission, Uruguay’s legislation efforts, and Cambodia and Chile pointing to existing import bans, while foreign officials and Democratic lawmakers worry Section 301 investigations are aimed at rebuilding tariffs.