Donald Trump is preparing to launch a new trade offensive. According to the Financial Times, the US president could announce a new round of tariffs against around 60 countries as early as this week, with tariffs ranging from 10% to 12.5%.
The taxes are expected to take effect when the current temporary tariff regime of 10% expires, scheduled for the end of the week.
The move is said to be based on an investigation into forced labor practices, a ploy to avoid using emergency powers that have already been struck down by the US Supreme Court.
The investigation, launched in March under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 (a US law that authorizes the US Trade Representative to investigate unfair trade practices of foreign countries and impose unilateral retaliatory measures), includes several trading partners, from the European Union, to China, Japan, India, Mexico, South Korea and Vietnam.
According to the British newspaper, some officials have urged Trump to maintain a cautious approach, respecting trade agreements reached in 2025. The administration is also said to be pursuing other investigations that could provide the legal basis for imposing even higher tariffs.
In recent hours, Trump announced tariffs of 50% on Canadian goods and 25% on those from Brazil, resuming his protectionist strategy.