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Importers Challenge New Forced Labor Tariffs Covering 60 Nations

A coalition of importers has filed suit challenging tariffs imposed on goods from 60 economies under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which took effect July 24 after a temporary surcharge expired. The duties range from 10 percent to 12.5 percent depending on the nation and product classification. The Court of International Trade has ruled the measure represents a third unlawful iteration of a tariff regime, following Supreme Court strikes against predecessor tariff authorities in February and May. Leading the challenge is Burlap & Barrel, a New York spice importer sourcing exclusively from ethically vetted suppliers, and Learning Resources, a toy manufacturer that previously won court relief from earlier tariff versions. The importers argue the measure disproportionately affects companies built on ethical supply chain practices rather than those relying on forced labor. Seventeen economies face the 10 percent rate, including Canada, Mexico, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh and the United Kingdom.