Australia to Raise New U.S. Tariffs With Trump, Prime Minister Albanese Says

Canberra Calls Latest U.S. Trade Measures 'Unjustified' as Diplomatic Talks Intensify      

                                         

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says his government will raise concerns directly with U.S. President Donald Trump over newly imposed American tariffs on Australian exports, describing the measures as "unjustified" and inconsistent with the longstanding trade relationship between the two allies.

The United States recently introduced a new 12.5% tariff on Australian goods as part of a broader package of trade measures affecting 60 trading partners. Washington said the tariffs were linked to concerns over the enforcement of measures designed to prevent goods produced with forced labour from entering global supply chains.

Speaking to Australian media, Albanese said he would "absolutely" raise the issue with President Trump, stressing that Australia has some of the world's strongest laws and regulations aimed at combating modern slavery and forced labour. He maintained that the tariffs were not justified and should be removed.

The Australian government argues that the new duties are inconsistent with the Australia–United States Free Trade Agreement, which has underpinned bilateral trade for more than two decades. Canberra has also lodged formal objections with U.S. trade authorities, stating there is no credible evidence to support claims that Australia has failed to address forced labour within its supply chains.

Albanese reiterated that Australia remains committed to "free and fair trade" and said his government would continue engaging with U.S. officials at every level to seek the removal of the tariffs. Trade Minister Don Farrell has similarly described the measures as "unjustified" and pledged to continue diplomatic efforts to protect Australian exporters.

The new U.S. tariffs replace an earlier temporary 10% levy and affect a range of Australian exports, with businesses warning the higher duties could reduce competitiveness in the American market. Industry groups have urged both governments to resolve the dispute quickly to minimise disruption to trade and investment.

Despite the disagreement, officials in Canberra have emphasised that Australia continues to value its strategic alliance with the United States and intends to pursue a constructive resolution through dialogue rather than retaliation.

Economists note that while Australia and the United States maintain strong defence and diplomatic ties, trade disputes have occasionally emerged over tariffs and market access. They say the outcome of upcoming discussions between Albanese and Trump could have significant implications for bilateral trade relations and Australian exporters.

The Australian government has indicated it will continue advocating for the removal of the tariffs while reaffirming its commitment to international trade rules, strong labour standards and cooperation with the United States on shared economic and strategic interests.