US proposes new 12.5% tariff on India over forced labour imports
New Delhi: The United States has proposed a new 12.5% tariff on India after an investigation found New Delhi failed to enforce bans on imports made with forced labour.
According to Kashmir Media Service, United States Trade Representative, the US government agency that handles international trade policy and negotiations, said the “failure of trading partners to address forced labour imports is unacceptable” and creates an “unlevelled playing field” for US workers.
The action follows probes under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 into 60 countries.
India’s Commerce Ministry said the proposed tariffs are “not yet final”.
Stakeholders can request public hearing participation by June 22 and submit written comments until July 6, with hearings on July 7 before a final decision.
India remains engaged with the US on Section 301 proceedings and a framework trade agreement announced in February.
Products under Section 232 and some textiles have exclusions. Six nations including Pakistan and Canada have been offered a lower 10% rate for showing commitment to ban forced labour imports.
