Norway Disputes U.S. Allegation of Forced Labour Failure

Norway's foreign minister dismisses U.S. claims regarding inadequate measures against forced labour, criticizing proposed tariffs. Espen Barth Eide defends Norway's Transparency Act, citing its pioneering role in preventing forced labour. Experts and NGOs argue that Trump's tariffs may not effectively combat modern slavery, potentially exacerbating the issue.

Norway has rejected a U.S. assessment accusing the Nordic country of failing to prevent forced labour, with its foreign minister firmly stating that the claim is unfounded. The rebuttal comes after the Trump administration proposed imposing tariffs of up to 12.5% on imports from Norway and other countries, alleging insufficient action against forced labour.

Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide, speaking to Reuters, stressed that Norway was among the first to pass legislation targeting forced labour in supply chains, via the Transparency Act. Barth Eide emphasized that this stance has been clearly communicated to U.S. authorities.

Experts, business groups, and human rights organizations have criticized Trump's tariff strategy, arguing that it would not effectively combat modern slavery and might worsen conditions. They question the effectiveness of tariffs as a measure against forced labour practices.