U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced a significant enforcement action against Kingtom Aluminio S.R.L., a Chinese-owned company operating in the Dominican Republic. The agency issued a Finding based on evidence indicating the use of forced labor in the company's production processes, which violates U.S. trade laws under 19 U.S.C. § 1307.
Effective immediately, CBP officers at all U.S. ports of entry will seize aluminum extrusion and profile products from Kingtom Aluminio S.R.L. These materials are commonly used in various industries, including transportation, construction, furniture, and electronics.
During its investigation into Kingtom Aluminio S.R.L., CBP identified several indicators of forced labor as defined by the International Labour Organization. These included abuse of vulnerability, intimidation and threats, deception, withholding of wages, physical and sexual violence, restriction of movement, and excessive overtime.
"Trading in goods that were manufactured at the expense of the health, safety, and freedom of another human being is completely antithetical to American values and the American way of life," stated Troy A. Miller, CBP Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner.
AnnMarie R. Highsmith, Executive Assistant Commissioner of CBP Office of Trade added: "With this action, we are sending a message to those entities that continue to attempt to circumvent U.S. trade laws – your goods are not welcome in the United States."
This Finding against Kingtom Aluminio S.R.L. is part of CBP's ongoing efforts to combat forced labor globally. The agency currently manages 51 withhold release orders and nine Findings under 19 U.S.C. § 1307.
The International Labour Organization estimates that nearly 28 million workers worldwide endure conditions associated with forced labor. Such practices not only harm vulnerable populations but also disadvantage American workers and businesses unable to compete with goods produced under these conditions sold below market value.
Under 19 U.S.C. § 1307, importing goods made wholly or partially by convict labor or forced labor is prohibited in the United States. When evidence suggests such violations occur, CBP directs port personnel to seize related shipments unless importers can prove their admissibility per regulations.
CBP encourages reports on suspected forced labor from various sources including private citizens and organizations through its e-Allegations Online Trade Violation Reporting System or by calling 1-800-BE-ALERT.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection operates within the Department of Homeland Security as a unified border agency responsible for managing national borders while integrating customs duties with immigration control and agricultural protection across official entry points.
