India is gearing up to challenge a proposed US tariff on its exports, citing legal flaws and lack of evidence regarding forced labor allegations. The challenge will be presented to the US Trade Representative’s Section 301 Committee on July 8. Representatives from industry bodies like FICCI and CII are scheduled to testify during the hearings.
The proposed tariff aims to impose an additional 12.5% duty on imports from India under an investigation into forced labor practices. India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry has rejected the US findings, emphasizing its robust legal framework against forced labor and lack of evidence supporting the claims.
Industry bodies like CII have strongly opposed the proposed action, arguing that India’s policies and legal safeguards are in line with international standards. They have highlighted India’s ratification of key labor conventions and the absence of direct links between imports and forced labor. The industry urges the US to consider cooperation over punitive tariffs.
