The Cumberland Times-News
·Jul 2026
A forced-labor crackdown or an end-run around Congress? Dissecting Trump's new tariffs
The Trump administration has imposed double-digit tariffs on imports from more than 60 countries under a legal authority aimed at countries that fail to prevent forced-labor goods from entering the United States. Critics argue the tariffs largely replace expired worldwide duties and may bypass Congress, while legal experts question whether the administration has adequately demonstrated country-specific failures. Supporters and labor advocates say stronger action is needed, but manufacturers warn that broad tariffs could harm domestic businesses and consumers. The administration has offered limited detail on how tariff rates were calculated or how countries can qualify for relief, prompting calls for clearer benchmarks and stronger enforcement programs.