India Contests US Section 301 Forced-Labour Tariffs, Cites Selective Exemptions on Textiles

India flagged inconsistencies in proposed US Section 301 forced-labour duties of 10-12.5%, pointing to 1,600 exempted products and uneven treatment across 54-60 economies. Higher tariffs on Indian textile and apparel exports would raise costs for exporters, US retailers and consumers ahead of the July 24 deadline.

— Filed Thu, 9 Jul, 2026, 11:02 IST · Source Times of India · Business · Updated

India challenged proposed US Section 301 forced-labour tariffs of 10-12.5%, citing inconsistent exemptions. Higher duties on Indian textile/apparel exports would raise costs for exporters, US retailers and consumers, materially affecting India's export-oriented retail supply chains.

Why this matters

India's challenge to US Section 301 forced-labour tariffs highlights escalating trade friction over textiles, with selective exemptions raising fairness concerns for exporters and US retailers ahead of the July 24 deadline.

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