U.S. trade probe reviews Morocco and 59 others over policies on forced-labor imports

The United States is taking a hard look at how some of its biggest trading partners handle goods made with forced labor, and Morocco is on the list.

Morocco is listed alongside other major economies such as China, India, Brazil, and Mexico. The full list includes countries across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, reflecting the wide reach of U.S. trade concerns.

The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced it has launched investigations into 60 economies under the Trade Act of 1974.

The move targets countries whose policies—or lack of enforcement—may allow goods produced with forced labor to reach U.S. markets.

Officials say these practices could give foreign producers an unfair edge, making it harder for American businesses and workers to compete.

“Despite the international consensus against forced labor, governments have failed to impose and effectively enforce measures banning goods produced with forced labor from entering their markets,” said U.S. Trade Ambassador Greer.

“For too long, American workers and firms have been forced to compete against foreign producers who may have an artificial cost advantage gained from the scourge of forced labor,” he added.

The Section 301 investigations aim to determine whether countries like Morocco have taken sufficient steps to prohibit imports linked to forced labor. They will also assess how failing to stop these practices impacts U.S. commerce.

The USTR says it will consult with the governments of the economies under review and hold public hearings in Washington on April 28, 2026. Stakeholders wishing to participate must submit comments or requests to appear by April 15.

Section 301 of the Trade Act is a tool the United States uses to respond to foreign practices that unfairly restrict U.S. trade.

These investigations are self-initiated under the law, which allows the USTR to examine whether foreign acts, policies, or practices are unreasonable or discriminatory.

By scrutinizing these practices, the U.S. hopes to level the playing field for American workers while pushing trading partners to crack down on forced labor. The investigations could eventually lead to new trade measures if countries are found to be noncompliant.