Signed into law on December 23, 2021, the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) created a rebuttable presumption to ensure that any imported goods are not produced wholly or in part with convict labor, forced labor, and/or indentured labor – including forced or indentured child labor. Any goods, wares, articles, and merchandise mined, produced, or manufactured wholly or in part in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous region of the People’s Republic of China – or produced by an entity on a list (such as Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, Tibetans, or members of other persecuted groups in any other part of the People’s Republic of China) is prohibited from entering the United States.
Also prohibited by Section 307 of the 1930 Tariff Act are the items on clauses (i), (ii), (iv), or (v) of section 2(d)(2B) may not enter the country.
CBP announced that following the UFLA, they are issuing letters to importers identified as having previously imported merchandise that may be subjected to the UFLA, and to encourage them to address any forced labor issues in their supply chains in a timely manner. Issued in advance of June 21st when the changes will take place, CBP is giving ample warning to those with and without letters to address this matter with efficiency and care.
Even if a letter is not sent to the importer, they are still required to examine their supply chain and determine if it is free of forced labor. Should you have issues with this and or need questions answered please don’t hesitate to contact your Sobel representative today. As you navigate through these uncertain waters, we are right there with you to guide and help you each step of the way. We will not let you falter in getting this done right, as we know you want to do right by stopping these products from entering the country. Sobel has your back, and is here if you need any information regarding these letters.
