USTR Requests Comments on Strategy to Combat Forced Labor

Jul. 6, 2022
By: David G. Forgue

On July 6, 2022 the Office of the United States Trade Representative issued a Federal Register notice requesting comments from the public regarding a government-wide strategy to combat forced labor. We have written about forced labor issues many many many many many many (and that’s not all of the articles) times in the past. The issue is clearly not going away, which makes it important for supply chain professionals to comment on any future strategy.


 

For commenting parties the USTR has requested that five specific questions be addressed. These are:

• What actions could the U.S. Government pursue with like-minded trade partners and allies to combat forced labor as an unfair trade practice?
• How can the U.S. Government bolster the forced labor components of trade agreements and trade preference programs have greater effect?
• What new and innovative trade tools can the U.S. Government develop and utilize to advance efforts to combat forced labor in trade goods and services?
• How can the U.S. Government make the development of trade policy on forced labor a more inclusive process?
• Do you have additional recommendations for monitoring, tracing, or eliminating forced labor in traded goods and services in supply chains?

Clearly the USTR is considering non-traditional options in addressing forced labor issues. The first and fifth questions in particular seem to present industry with an opportunity to share real world experiences and challenges with the agency.

The deadline for comment is August 5, 2022. If you would like to comment, have questions about forced labor in your supply chain, or have any other import question do not hesitate to contact any attorney at Barnes, Richardson & Colburn, LLP.