The United States has imposed a 12.5% tariff on Philippine exports after determining that Manila has not adequately banned goods made with forced labor from entering its market, according to Philstar Biz.
The tariff, announced on July 24, 2026, targets a range of Philippine products and is expected to raise costs for exporters. The move follows a review by the U.S. Trade Representative that cited insufficient enforcement against forced labor practices in the Philippines.
Philippine trade officials have expressed concern over the impact on bilateral trade, which totaled billions of dollars annually. Negotiations are ongoing to address U.S. concerns and potentially reverse the tariff.