The Trump administration proposed new import duties on 60 economies on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 [4], citing failures to curb trade in goods made with forced labor [2].

These measures represent a significant escalation in U.S. trade policy, leveraging tariffs to enforce human rights standards across a vast array of global supply chains. Because the proposal targets major trading partners, it could disrupt bilateral relations and increase costs for consumers and manufacturers.

According to the proposal, the U.S. Trade Representative and President Donald Trump's trade adviser are seeking a 10% tariff on imports from Canada, Mexico, and the European Union [1]. Dozens of other countries would face a higher rate of 12.5% [1].

The administration judged that the targeted nations failed to implement sufficient measures to prevent the import of goods produced through forced labor [2]. By applying these duties, the U.S. intends to pressure these governments to tighten their oversight of labor practices.

Officials said that the tariffs are not yet final [5]. The current proposal serves as a framework for potential implementation, allowing for further review or negotiation with the affected 60 economies [2].

The scope of the proposal is broad, covering a significant portion of global trade. While the 10% rate applies to the closest North American neighbors and the EU [1], the 12.5% rate extends to a wider list of nations to ensure a global response to labor violations [1].

“The Trump administration proposed new import duties on 60 economies”

This move signals a shift toward using broad-based economic penalties rather than targeted sanctions to address human rights concerns. By grouping the EU, Canada, and Mexico together under a 10% tariff, the U.S. is treating its most integrated trading partners as complicit in forced-labor failures, which may trigger retaliatory tariffs or a restructuring of global trade agreements.