Shocking Forced Labor Claims From Somalia Prompt CBP To Detain Imports of Popular Product
CBP halts all imports of frankincense from Somalia, citing severe forced labor allegations—no place for unethical practices in U.S. markets. 🌐 #News #StPaulMN #Minnesota #Somalia
ST. PAUL, MN – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has taken decisive action against forced labor practices in the international supply chain, announcing on Friday that it will detain all frankincense products sourced from Somali supplier Asli Maydi. The action stems from allegations of forced labor identified during an investigation into the company’s production practices in Somaliland.
CBP Acts on Forced Labor in the Frankincense Industry
CBP’s investigation revealed disturbing labor practices at Asli Maydi, citing “deception, physical violence, abusive working conditions, intimidation and threats, and withholding of wages,” according to CBP’s statement.
These conditions align with forced labor indicators established by the International Labour Organization, which advocates for the eradication of exploitative labor practices worldwide.
Inside CBP’s Investigation of Asli Maydi
Frankincense, a resin tapped from the Boswellia tree, is commonly used in essential oils and skincare products for its aromatic and therapeutic qualities. However, CBP’s Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner, Troy A. Miller, stressed that “trading in goods made with forced labor is in direct opposition to American values.”
Miller continued, “When goods are manufactured at the cost of someone’s health, safety, or freedom, we all lose.” CBP has affirmed its commitment to stopping the import of products that compromise basic human rights in pursuit of profit.
With a global estimate of nearly 28 million workers subjected to forced labor, according to the International Labour Organization, CBP’s enforcement action represents a significant stand against exploitative practices. The withhold release order (WRO) now in place allows CBP to detain any shipments of frankincense-based products linked to Asli Maydi.
This move underscores the agency’s intent to hold “unscrupulous businesses, importers, and manufacturers around the world accountable,” Miller emphasized.
How You Can Help Combat Forced Labor
CBP is urging public vigilance in combatting forced labor. Any individual or organization with concerns about forced labor in goods bound for the U.S. can report suspected violations using CBP’s e-Allegations Online Trade Violation Reporting System or by calling 1-800-BE-ALERT.
Executive Assistant Commissioner of CBP’s Office of Trade, AnnMarie R. Highsmith, put it bluntly: “With this action, we are sending a message to those who continue to disregard basic human rights: your goods are not welcome in the United States.”
As CBP intensifies its crackdown, it’s clear that products tainted by unethical practices face growing scrutiny, and American consumers are invited to consider the story behind the items they bring into their homes.
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