Three CARICOM member states are facing new U.S. tariffs as part of a broad trade enforcement push by the Trump administration targeting goods linked to forced labour.
Effective Friday, The Bahamas and Guyana will face 12.5% tariffs on exports to the U.S., while Trinidad and Tobago will face 10%. The Dominican Republic is also included in the new measures affecting 60 economies worldwide.
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative said the tariffs replace a temporary 10% global rate and are imposed under Sections 301 and 304 of the Trade Act of 1974. Countries with forced labour import bans generally received the 10% rate, but higher rates were applied following individual investigations.
The White House said the framework covers over 95% of imports from key trading partners and is meant to strengthen enforcement of the U.S. ban on forced labour goods.
The Bahamas said it is reviewing the impact and engaging U.S. officials. “We remain committed to our longstanding economic relationship with the United States,” said Senator Latrae Rahming.
