TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor said Thursday it will create a review system to restrict imports of goods made with forced labor after the US proposed new tariffs on 60 countries and economies.
Reuters reported that the US has proposed tariffs of up to 12.5% on imports from 60 countries and economies, saying they failed to stop trade in goods made with forced labor. CNA reported that Taiwan was listed among 14 economies in the lower tariff group, which could face a 10% tariff.
The labor ministry said the US proposal was not aimed only at Taiwan. It also said the tariff plan was still under discussion and had not been finalized.
The ministry said Taiwan has already made clear commitments on forced labor during trade talks with the US. It said the US recognized those efforts, which is why Taiwan was placed in the lower tariff group.
The ministry said Taiwan takes forced labor risks seriously because they affect human rights and global supply chains. Goods made with forced labor are products made through coercion, abuse, or other unfair labor practices.
The ministry said it will work with the Ministry of Economic Affairs to create a review process for such goods. If officials confirm that a product was made with forced labor, Taiwan could use trade rules to restrict its import.
The ministry said the new system would help improve labor rights in supply chains. It said Taiwan will continue to follow international rules and strengthen cooperation with other countries on forced labor issues.
