Updated Jul 24, 2026 – 7.19am, first published at 1.24am32 mins ago – 7.19AMAustralia hit with 12.5pc tariff rate in new Trump policyJosh HohneThe Trump administration has set Australia’s tariff rate at 12.5 per cent in its new series of trade levies on its partners,A statement from the office of the United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer alleged that Australia had “inadequately enforced bans on goods produced by forced labour”.“Based on the findings in the investigation of Australia, considering the public comments, testimony, and the advice of the section 301 committee, as well as the advice of advisory committees, and in accordance with the specific direction of the president, the trade representative has determined to impose 12.5 per cent tariffs on products of Australia.”The Australian government has previously lodged its objection to the tariffs, disputing the claim that goods made with forced labour were entering the country.1 / 2