The U.S. has begun forced labour probes into 60 economies that critics say are a ‘show trial’ that will allow Trump to slap new tariffs on trading partners such as Canada
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Trade watchers say they are shocked at the latest tactic being used by the U.S. Trump administration to shore up its tariff wall against Canada after a legal setback last month.
Last week, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) launched investigations into 60 economies under Section 301(b) of the U.S. Trade Act of 1974 to determine whether they have failed to impose or enforce bans on imports produced with forced labour. But critics in the Washington beltway say the 301 probes are basically a “show trial” and that the verdict is sure to go against trading partners such as Canada.
Ouch!
🚨NEW – VANCE DROPS TRUTH BOMB ON CANADA:
“We had to foot the bill for Canada!
Is that fair that you and your kids have to pay for the military of a foreign country?…. NO!” pic.twitter.com/zutKG0ksoJ
— Tablesalt 🇨🇦🇺🇸 (@Tablesalt13) March 18, 2026
