US agency under scrutiny after watchdog warns of forced labor in Dominican Republic
Summary
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) faced criticism after lifting a ban on sugar imports from a Dominican Republic company accused of using forced labor. A watchdog group reported that forced labor still exists on sugarcane farms in the Dominican Republic, prompting a U.S. senator to demand more information about the ban’s removal.Key Facts
- In 2022, CBP banned imports from Central Romana Corporation, Ltd. over forced labor and poor working conditions.
- The ban was lifted last year during President Trump’s administration.
- A nonprofit called Corporate Accountability Lab said forced labor is still happening at these sugarcane farms.
- U.S. Senator Ron Wyden asked CBP for documents explaining why the ban was reversed.
- Wyden expressed concern that political influence may have affected the decision.
- CBP acknowledged the request for information but has not given a comment yet.
- Forced labor means people are made to work against their will under harsh conditions.
- The Dominican Republic exports a large amount of sugar to the U.S.
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