US to impose on Nicaraguan goods over claims of human rights violations

(MENAFN) The United States announced on Wednesday that it will begin imposing tariffs on Nicaraguan imports starting in 2026 due to alleged human rights violations, as reported by official statements. The US Trade Representative (USTR) cited “Nicaragua's acts, policies, and practices related to abuses of labor rights, abuses of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and dismantling of the rule of law” as the basis for the measure.

The USTR stated that “Nicaragua's acts, policies, and practices are unreasonable and burden or restrict U.S. commerce,” following a review of over 2,000 public comments and consultations with experts. The tariffs will be phased in over two years, beginning at 0% and rising to 15% by 2028, and will apply to all Nicaraguan goods not covered under the Dominican Republic-Central America-United States Free Trade Agreement.

These new tariffs will be added on top of an existing 18% reciprocal tariff. The USTR noted that the timeline and rates could be adjusted “should Nicaragua show a lack of progress in addressing these issues.” Nicaragua has not issued a public response to the announcement.

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