US Initiates New Trade Investigations Targeting India and 59 Other Nations

The United States has launched new trade investigations against India and 59 other countries, focusing on concerns related to forced labor in imports. This move follows a separate inquiry into unfair trade practices by 16 trading partners. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer indicated that these investigations could lead to new tariffs on countries including China and the EU. The investigations are conducted under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, allowing the US to address unfair foreign practices affecting its commerce. The outcome may significantly impact international trade relations as the US aims to finalize these investigations before existing temporary tariffs expire in July.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 13, 2026, 14:23 IST

Overview of the New Trade Investigations

The United States has commenced new trade investigations involving India and 59 additional countries, citing concerns over the importation of goods produced through "forced labor." This announcement was made on Thursday, following a separate investigation into alleged unfair trade practices by 16 trading partners just a day earlier. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer indicated that these investigations could potentially result in new tariffs on nations such as China, the European Union, India, Japan, South Korea, and Mexico as soon as this summer.

The investigations aim to empower the US to impose tariffs on any countries found guilty of unfair trade practices. The US government is keen to finalize these investigations before the temporary tariffs, introduced by Trump in late February, expire in July. Section 301 allows the US to impose tariffs on countries identified as engaging in unfair trade practices without needing congressional approval.

Other nations under scrutiny include Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Switzerland, and Norway. Notably, Canada, which ranks as America's second-largest trading partner, has not been included in this investigation.

Understanding Section 301

What is Section 301?

The ongoing investigations are being carried out under Section 301(b) of the Trade Act of 1974, as stated by the United States Trade Representative (USTR). This section is intended to address unfair foreign practices that impact US commerce. It can be utilized to respond to foreign government actions that are unjustifiable, unreasonable, or discriminatory, which may hinder US commerce.

Section 302(b) of the Trade Act allows the USTR to initiate an investigation under Section 301. This investigation assesses whether the actions, policies, or practices of a foreign nation are unreasonable or discriminatory and whether they burden or restrict US commerce. Upon starting an investigation, the USTR is required to consult with the economies involved.

These probes provide the Trump administration with an opportunity to reinforce a credible tariff threat against trading partners, encouraging them to negotiate and adhere to trade agreements aimed at reducing higher tariff rates under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Greer mentioned that these new investigations, which have been anticipated by administration officials, should not come as a surprise to trading partners, who are expected to honor their agreements. However, he did not guarantee immunity from new Section 301 tariffs.

Greer emphasized that Trump is committed to pursuing tariffs and will find ways to address unfair trading practices, reduce the trade deficit, and protect US manufacturing. He stated, "We have a lot of tools to do it." Indian exports to the US are currently subject to a reduced 10% reciprocal tariff for 150 days starting February 24, following a temporary global import surcharge announced by President Trump after a US Supreme Court ruling that invalidated his previous extensive duties.