‘Extremely disappointing’: US trade partners respond to Trump’s new tariffs

The United States has implemented a fresh round of tariffs affecting more than 80 countries, with duty rates between 10 and 12.5 percent. The administration justified the action by invoking Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, claiming that targeted nations have failed to prevent the importation of goods manufactured under forced labour conditions. Many of the affected countries have disputed these allegations.

Australia, a major exporter of beef, gold, and copper, rejected any connection to forced labour practices. Trade Minister Don Farrell stated that Australia takes modern slavery seriously and intends to continue lobbying the United States for tariff removal. New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described the tariffs as "extremely disappointing," asserting that the US investigation did not provide sufficient evidence to substantiate forced labour claims.

The United Kingdom indicated that the tariffs would have no adverse impact on its exports, noting that previous trade agreements have exempted several British industries from additional duties. A British government spokesman emphasised the country's commitment to preventing forced labour in global supply chains. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara objected to the tariffs, stating that Japanese industry operates in accordance with international norms. He confirmed, however, that Japan had secured assurances that total tariffs would not exceed a 15 percent rate established in a trade agreement reached the previous year.

The European Commission responded with cautious optimism to the announcement. The tariffs represent another controversial trade action by the Trump administration, which has pursued tariffs as part of a broader strategy to revitalise US manufacturing. Previous signature reciprocal tariffs were struck down by the US Supreme Court as unconstitutional.