U.S. trade court tests forced-labor basis for tariffs on 60 partners

On September 30, 2026, the U.S. Court of International Trade heard challenges to tariffs of 10% to 12.5% imposed on imports from 60 trading partners and the European Union on the basis of alleged inadequate action against forced labor. Four small businesses and 25 Democratic-led states argued that the administration failed to make country-specific findings, while the Justice Department said the U.S. Trade Representative had adequately evaluated forced-labor burdens in global commerce. Importers should preserve protest, refund and contract-adjustment positions while the panel considers whether to vacate the tariffs or require a more detailed investigation. The case will help define whether human-rights trade measures can be applied globally through generalized findings or must be built jurisdiction by jurisdiction.