USTR Proposes New Section 301 Tariffs Targeting Forced Labor in Optical Supply Chain Countries
As Section 122 Nears Expiration, New Section 301 Tariffs Loom for the Optical Industry
Following the expiration of Section 122 duties on July 24, 2026, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has proposed new Section 301 tariffs citing forced labor concerns. The proposal includes a 10% additional tariff on imports from 14 countries/regions (including the EU, UK, Canada, Mexico, Taiwan, and Malaysia) and a 12.5% tariff on 46 other countries (including China, India, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand). Separately, a 25% tariff on Brazilian goods is expected after July 15, 2026. These measures target countries lacking effective forced labor prohibitions, distinct from existing 2018 trade practice tariffs. No implementation date is set; a public hearing and comment period are open. The Vision Council notes these changes could increase costs across the optical supply chain.
This update highlights imminent tariff changes affecting the optical supply chain, directly impacting import costs and ecommerce operations for eyewear retailers.
Source:The Vision Council · thevisioncouncil.org