Trump administration launches new forced labor investigations into dozens of countries as it fights to restore tariffs

March 13, 2026

TL;DR

The Trump administration is launching investigations into 60 countries under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 regarding forced labor.
The investigations target countries accused of not adequately prohibiting imports made with forced labor, creating an unfair cost advantage for their producers.
Section 301 allows for tariffs and import restrictions if unfair trade practices are found.
This move is a strategy to restore President Trump's tariff policies after a Supreme Court ruling struck down many of his previous tariffs.
The administration aims to conclude these investigations before temporary tariffs enacted under a different law expire in July.

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