Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) submitted written comments to the US Trade Representative (USTR) on 6 July, formally responding to the US investigation launched against Singapore under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.

In its submission, Singapore made clear that it has not adopted any unreasonable or discriminatory acts, policies or practices that would burden or restrict US commerce. Regarding US concerns over forced labour, MTI stated that there is no evidence that Singapore is involved in supply chains that export goods to the US and are linked to forced labour. Singapore said it is in ongoing communication with the USTR regarding the findings and proposed actions.

The investigation stems from a series of Section 301 investigations announced by the USTR on 11 March 2026 (US time), covering 16 economies including Singapore on issues of structural overcapacity and manufacturing production. On 12 March, the US initiated another Section 301 investigation concerning Singapore’s alleged failure to effectively enforce its ban on imports of forced labour products. In total, the two investigations cover about 60 economies.

Under the USTR’s schedule, the Section 301 Committee held a public hearing on 7 July. The US had previously proposed imposing an additional 10% tariff on six economies deemed “partially compliant”. These proposed measures are intended to replace the current 10% Section 122 tariffs, which are set to expire on 24 July.

The Singapore Business Federation (SBF) had earlier submitted its own comments to the USTR, emphasising that Singapore has enforceable legal prohibitions backed by criminal penalties and anti‑trafficking measures. Singapore has consistently stressed its market economy status and robust labour enforcement framework.

Analysts point out that the consultative nature of the Section 301 process means that final tariff imposition is not a foregone conclusion. The US will decide whether to formally impose tariffs and at what rates after hearing all views. The US is a key trading partner for Singapore, and the outcome of this investigation will have significant implications for bilateral trade relations.