U.S. Expands Uyghur Forced Labor Sanctions to More Chinese Companies

In an escalation of efforts to combat alleged forced labor practices in China’s Xinjiang region, the U.S. government has added three more companies to a list that restricts the import of their products into the country, Reuters reported yesterday.

The latest targets named in a notice from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are shoe manufacturer Dongguan Oasis Shoes Co, electrolytic aluminum maker Xinjiang Shenhuo Coal and Electricity Co, and food processor Shandong Meijia Group Co.

The DHS stated that these actions are part of an increased focus on “sectors that play an important role in Xinjiang’s economy” in order to keep “goods made with forced labor” out of the U.S. market. This builds on the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, which has led to scores of companies being added to a restricted trade list.

U.S. officials accuse Chinese authorities of establishing labor camps for Uyghurs and other Muslim minority groups in Xinjiang, allegations that Beijing has vehemently denied as “an egregious lie.” The Chinese embassy spokesperson called the U.S. sanctions a tool to “destabilize Xinjiang and contain China’s development,” also warning that the measures undermine global supply chains and international trade rules.

The escalating tensions highlight the complex and contentious issues surrounding human rights, global trade, and the ongoing power struggle between the U.S. and China.