DHS Advances Efforts to the Stop of Goods Produced by Forced Labor

DHS Advances Efforts to the Stop of Goods Produced by Forced Labor

The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA), implemented by The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is now set to include information provided by the public in order to advance the Department’s efforts to block goods made by forced laborers in the People’s Republic of China from being imported into the United States. The request for public comment was published in the Federal Register on January 24, 2022. Comments will be accepted for 45 days. Individuals may submit comments by following the instructions in the Federal Register notice.

Secretary Mayorkas stated, “As part of our efforts to advance the Biden-Harris Administration’s priority to eradicate forced labor from U.S. supply chains, we are taking an important first step today to implement the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.” He added, “Every day, the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection ensures that goods made with forced labor are not able to enter the U.S. supply chain, and I am proud to work alongside the world’s leading forced labor investigators in their mission to protect human rights and international labor standards. I look forward to hearing from our stakeholders as we continue to work closely to protect our vital trade ecosystem and end these horrific practices around the world.”

The UFLPA prevents goods from the Xinjiang province in China or any other enterprises identified in their enforcement strategy from being imported into the United States. However, if the importing company can prove with indisputable evidence that the items were not produced by forced labor, the UFLPA will make an exception.

The Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force will be holding a public hearing as well as discussing the development of a strategy to reinforce section 307 of the Tariff Act of 1930. Importers can look for direction from U.S. Customs and Border Protection as well as the DHS.

The Department of Homeland Security has committed itself to the protection of those who have been victims of sex trafficking and forced labor by partnering with shareholders, sharing information, and imposing actions. The DHS offices are devoting themselves to a victim-centered approach and vow to provide any necessary services and support to victims seeking retribution on their behalf. The Department has also started its Blue Campaign, designed to educate citizens, law enforcement, and other stakeholders on the signs of human trafficking. Read more about DHS’s work on human trafficking and forced labor here: DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking.

Please contact your Western Overseas representative with any questions.