US trade court weighs challenge to Trump's forced labor tariffs
SPY•The US Court of International Trade is hearing a challenge by four small businesses and 25 states to tariffs of 10% to 12.5% on goods from 60 trading partners. The tariffs, imposed in late July, cover more than 99% of US imports.
1. Challenge to tariffs
Four small businesses and 25 Democratic-led states argue that the tariffs exceed President Donald Trump's authority. Their lawsuits say the administration did not make the country-specific findings they contend are required to justify the duties.
2. Administration’s position
The Trump administration told the court it investigated the 60 trading partners’ failure to prevent imports of goods produced with forced labor and concluded tariffs were warranted for each.
3. Court review
A panel of three judges appointed by Trump, Barack Obama and Joe Biden is hearing arguments. The court is expected to issue a written ruling after the hearing.
