As of 18 November, all textiles and apparel produced in Mauritius by Firemount Group Ltd entering US ports will be detained.
CBP states that this WRO is based on its identification of the following forced labour indicators during its investigation of this company: abuse of vulnerability, debt bondage, deception, intimidation and threats. CBP said it gathered evidence from interview questionnaires, audio interview recordings and transcripts, open-source non-government organisation reports, news media, and academic research.
According to CBP, importers of detained shipments may seek to destroy or export those shipments or demonstrate that the goods were not produced with forced labour.
“CBP issues WROs on companies that use forced labour to the detriment of law-abiding businesses. CBP’s action protects and promotes American economic prosperity,” said CBP commissioner Rodney S. Scott.
Acting executive assistant commissioner Susan S. Thomas, of CBP’s Office of Trade, added: “Not only is forced labour inhumane, but it also creates unfair competition that harms American businesses and consumers. As America’s frontline for border and economic security, CBP stands ready to enforce our laws and ensure a level playing field.”
But Firemount Group told Just Style it "categorically and unequivocally denies any allegation of forced labour or unethical practices within its operations or supply chains."
"At no time has FMT engaged in, condoned, or benefited from forced labour. The company operates in strict compliance with Mauritian labour legislation as well as international standards governing workers’ rights, ethical recruitment, and fair employment practices. FMT has also been subject to regular social compliance audits, including international certification processes."
The group says it has engaged its legal representatives and external specialists with expertise in US trade and forced labour matters and is in the process of appointing an independent, internationally recognised audit firm to conduct a comprehensive review of its labour and recruitment systems.
"All appropriate legal and procedural steps are being taken to challenge the allegations and to seek the earliest possible suspension or revocation of the WRO.
"Firemount Textiles Ltd remains firmly committed to upholding and adhering to all applicable International Labour Organization (“ILO”) standards and recommendations, as well as to continuously strengthening its governance, ethical practices, and social compliance framework. We shall cooperate fully with all relevant stakeholders and authorities and will implement, without reservation, any reasonable recommendations arising from the ongoing review process."
CBP states that this action brings to 54 the number of WROs the agency is enforcing, along with nine findings, under 19 USC 1307, which prohibits imports of goods made wholly or in part with forced labour, including convict labour. China is currently subject to the highest number of WROs at 37.
This story has been updated from the original version to reflect Firemount Group's position.
