On April 28, 2026, Pakistan began contesting a US investigation into forced labour practices, following the withdrawal of reciprocal tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. A public hearing is underway in Washington and will continue until May 14, 2026.
The ambassador to the United States, alongside representatives from the textile and commerce ministries and the Ministry of Human Resource Development, is actively engaged in the proceedings. The government has banned imports of goods produced by forced labour to circumvent the tariffs previously imposed by the Trump administration.
The US Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated an investigation under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. This investigation scrutinizes the laws and enforcement practices of 60 economies, including Pakistan, regarding the prohibition of forced labour imports. The USTR questions whether these economies maintain or are establishing effective prohibitions and how their failures impact US commerce.
In response, the Country has conducted consultative sessions with industry stakeholders to draft a response. The draft, which includes initiatives like the Better Cotton Initiatives and organic cotton practices, aims to align Pakistan’s regulations with international standards. The steering committee has approved this draft for submission to the USTR.
The outcome of this investigation could significantly affect Pakistan’s trade relations with the US. As the hearing progresses, Pakistan’s ambassador is expected to deliver an oral statement, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to eradicating forced labour and aligning with global trade standards.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, May 1, 2026
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