US Ramps Up Uyghur Forced Labor Enforcement, EU Faces Critical Decision

The fight against forced labor in China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region is gaining momentum as the US strengthens enforcement and the EU grapples with an upcoming regulation.

The US government has prioritized the aluminum sector for stricter enforcement under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, Human Rights Watch reported yesterday.

The move aims to block any goods produced with forced labor in Xinjiang from reaching American consumers. Human Rights Watch research documenting forced labor risks in Xinjiang’s aluminum industry played a key role in this decision.

Meanwhile, the European Union has a crucial opportunity to address forced labor concerns with its forthcoming Forced Labor Regulation (FLR). The regulation could establish a comprehensive database identifying high-risk areas and sectors, potentially including Xinjiang and its aluminum industry. This database would be a valuable tool for businesses, regulators, and consumers to identify potential forced labor issues in their supply chains.

The urgency for action is further emphasized by the challenges faced in the US with the “de minimis” loophole. This exception allows some imported goods valued under $800 to bypass regular inspections for forced labor. US officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, have identified this loophole as a significant hurdle in enforcing the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. Lawmakers are proposing solutions, such as eliminating the exception for goods subject to tariffs.

These developments by both the US and EU signal a growing international effort to pressure China on the issue of forced labor in Xinjiang. The effectiveness of the EU’s approach will depend on how it utilizes the upcoming Forced Labor Regulation. A robust database listing high-risk areas and sectors, along with strong enforcement mechanisms, could be a significant step forward in combating forced labor globally.