The United States introduces a new trade tariff that applies to many Australian exports following President Donald Trump’s forced-labour policy. According to reporting, a 12.5% tariff begins taking effect from Friday, as part of a broader tariff regime covering dozens of countries. The policy is justified by the US on the grounds that Australia is not doing enough to combat forced labour.
Australia’s government rejects the basis for the measures. Trade Minister Don Farrell says the tariff regime is unjustified and inconsistent with Australia’s free trade agreement with the United States. The Albanese government calls on the US to remove the tariffs immediately.
While the US announcement indicates the tariff rate and the scope (“many” exports and multiple countries), details on which specific Australian products are covered were not provided in the excerpts. Both outlets agree on the key point that the tariffs are new, that the stated rate is 12.5%, and that the US links them to forced-labour allegations, prompting an Australian government response demanding removal.
