U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced a modification to the withhold release order (WRO) against disposable gloves produced by Brightway Holdings Sdn. Bhd., Laglove (M) Sdn., and Biopro (M) Sdn. Bhd., collectively known as Brightway Group, in Malaysia. Effective immediately, these gloves will be allowed entry into the United States if they comply with U.S. laws.
This decision follows the initial WRO issued on December 20, 2021, which was based on evidence indicating forced labor conditions at Brightway Group's facilities. CBP identified ten of the eleven International Labour Organization indicators of forced labor present in their manufacturing process at that time.
According to Troy A. Miller, CBP’s Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner, "Facilitation of legitimate trade is just as important as CBP’s enforcement against illegal trade practices." He added that companies documenting compliance with U.S. trade laws can access the U.S. market.
AnnMarie R. Highsmith, Executive Assistant Commissioner of CBP’s Office of Trade, emphasized that "CBP’s efforts are making a real impact toward eliminating forced labor from U.S. supply chains." She noted that businesses have been altering their practices and incorporating due diligence into their supply chains in response to CBP's strong enforcement stance.
Since implementing the WRO, Brightway Group has taken measures to address and remediate all forced labor indicators previously identified in its production processes.
Title 19 U.S.C. § 1307 prohibits importing goods made wholly or partially by convict or forced labor into the United States. If there is reasonable indication that imported goods involve forced labor, CBP detains shipments at ports of entry until proof of admissibility is provided by importers or until shipments are exported.
CBP provides a process for interested parties to request modifications or revocations of WROs or Findings when there is evidence demonstrating that products no longer involve forced labor.
Individuals suspecting merchandise produced with forced labor being imported into the United States can report through CBP's e-Allegations Online Trade Violation Reporting System or by calling 1-800-BE-ALERT.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection serves as America's frontline law enforcement organization with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to protecting national security while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
