The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has issued a Withholding Order against aluminum extrusions and profile products imported from Kingtom Aluminio S.R.L., a Dominican Republic-based factory.
This action, taken under Section 307 of the Tariff Act of 1930, stems from a CBP investigation that uncovered the use of forced labor in the manufacturing process.
The Tariff Act explicitly prohibits the importation of goods produced wholly or in part using convict, forced, or indentured labor. CBP’s investigation determined that Kingtom Aluminio S.R.L., a Chinese-owned company employing both Chinese and Dominican workers, violated this provision. Evidence suggests the company utilized convicts and forced or indentured labor in the production of its aluminum extrusions and related products destined for the U.S. market.
This decision follows a petition filed by the Aluminum Extruders Council (AEC) and the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union (USW). Both organizations had raised concerns regarding Kingtom Aluminio’s labor practices, prompting the investigation by CBP and DHS.
The Withholding Order empowers port directors to seize any aluminum extrusions from Kingtom Aluminio S.R.L. found to violate 19 U.S.C. 1307, initiating forfeiture proceedings. Kingtom has the opportunity to challenge the order by providing compelling evidence demonstrating that its merchandise was not produced using prohibited labor. Failure to provide such evidence will result in the continued prohibition of their imports.
Jeff Henderson, president of the AEC, lauded the CBP’s action, stating that the announcement “sends a powerful message that forced labor has no place in global supply chains.” He emphasized the AEC’s commitment to rigorous enforcement of trade laws and ethical labor standards. This decisive action underscores the increasing scrutiny of global supply chains and the commitment of U.S. authorities to combat forced labor practices worldwide. The case highlights the importance of due diligence and transparency throughout the entire supply chain to ensure compliance with U.S. import regulations and ethical sourcing standards. Further developments in this case will be closely monitored by industry stakeholders and human rights organizations alike.
Source: CBP with additional information added by GlassBalkan
