CBP Commissioner Issues Detention Order on Chemical, Fiber Products Produced by Forced Labor in China

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner R. Gil Kerlikowske today directed the issuance of a withhold release order against imported soda ash, calcium chloride, caustic soda, and viscose/rayon fiber manufactured or mined by Tangshan Sanyou Group and its subsidiaries in the People’s Republic of China. The order will require detention at all U.S. ports of entry of any of such merchandise manufactured by this company.

The withhold release order is based on information obtained by CBP indicating that the Tangshan Sanyou Group and its subsidiaries utilize convict labor in the production of the merchandise.

It is illegal to import into the United States goods made, wholly or in part, with convict labor and/or forced labor (including forced child labor) and/or indentured labor under penal sanctions. CBP issues withhold release orders when information available reasonably indicates merchandise in violation of 19 U.S.C. § 1307, is, or is likely to be, imported.