“Convict colony”: Trump’s bizarre reason for targeting Australia

Professor Harcourt critiques US tariffs on Australia aimed at combating forced labour, warning of unintended trade weaponisation

Professor Tim Harcourt questions why Australia has been hit by US tariffs imposed under rules designed to combat forced and slave labour.

He warns that trade restrictions created with good intentions can later be weaponised by a president willing to use any available provision against allies and rivals alike.