The Philippines has asked the United States to exempt its exports from proposed tariffs on goods linked to forced labor. The Department of Trade and Industry submitted comments to the Office of the United States Trade Representative arguing the country maintains strong safeguards.
In submissions filed by Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo, the Department of Trade and Industry stated that the Philippines already has a robust legal framework and proven track record against forced labor. It noted that only 0.01 percent, or $2.71 million, of its $48.25 billion in exports to the United States from 2023 to 2026 had been denied entry.
The agency added that a joint administrative order with the Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Finance is being drafted. This order would set procedures for handling allegations about imported goods produced with forced labor.
In June the Office of the United States Trade Representative proposed an extra 12.5 percent tariff on imports from countries lacking effective safeguards. Countries with a ban or partial regime would face a 10 percent tariff. The duties would cover 60 major US trading partners if adopted.
