U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a Withhold Release Order (WRO) against Taepyung Salt Farm. The decision is based on information suggesting the use of forced labor in the production of the company's sea salt products. Consequently, CBP will now detain these products at all U.S. ports of entry.
CBP identified several forced labor indicators during its investigation. These include abuse of vulnerability, deception, restriction of movement, retention of identity documents, abusive conditions, intimidation, threats, physical violence, debt bondage, wage withholding, and excessive overtime.
“The fight against forced labor is a top priority for CBP,” stated CBP Acting Commissioner Pete Flores. He emphasized that forced labor products should not be allowed into the United States.
Susan S. Thomas, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner of CBP Office of Trade, added, “Combatting forced labor in our supply chain is one of many ways we work to ensure an even playing field for law-abiding American businesses.”
CBP oversees 52 WROs and nine Findings related to forced labor under 19 U.S.C. § 1307. This statute prohibits importing goods made wholly or partly by forced labor, including goods made by children under duress.
Issues of forced labor affect global competition, as goods produced under these conditions can be sold below market value. The International Labour Organization estimates around 28 million workers are under forced labor globally.
CBP takes allegations of forced labor from various sources and encourages reports from the public via the e-Allegations Online Trade Violation Reporting System or by phone.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is a major law enforcement agency, working to protect America's borders and facilitate legal trade and travel. The organization emphasizes its role in ensuring economic prosperity and national security through innovative and collaborative methods.
