Philippines asks US to lower tariff to 10% from 12.5% over forced labor

The Philippines is negotiating with Washington to cut the US tariff on its exports from 12.5 percent to 10 percent, imposed over forced labor concerns. Palace press officer Claire Castro said Thursday the target is based on information given to the government. Manila has submitted a joint order banning imports made wholly or partly through forced labor and documents citing laws penalizing the practice. Washington imposed the 12.5-percent tariff last month, saying safeguards were insufficient. The rate followed an expired 10-percent blanket tariff; only about 34 percent of Philippine exports, worth $6.25 billion, are affected.