After downplaying forced labor in China, Canadian PM under scrutiny
Recently, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney seemed to downplay forced labor in China. When asked about the risks, he said some regions in China are “higher risk” and that it is an issue all around the world. His comments follow his colleague dismissing concerns about forced labor in China in a parliamentary hearing on March 26. Carney has defended Member of Parliament, Michael Ma, as well as the country’s efforts to keep forced labor out of its market.
But advocates are not convinced that Canada has “strong protections” in place as the Prime Minister insists. With forced labor import bans in the US and the EU, there are concerns that countries such as Canada can become potential dumping grounds. Further, Canada has previously taken a much stronger stance on forced labor in China.
A “terrible track record”
Canada has put measures in place aimed at blocking imports tied to forced labor. However, experts say these rules are rarely applied. Consequently, very few shipments are stopped at the border. Indeed, conservative MP Michael Chong, said Canada has a “terrible track record” of preventing the importation of products made with forced labor.
MP Chong told CBC:
I strongly disagree and I think many experts and many human rights groups would strongly disagree with the prime minister’s assessment that we have a rigorous system for preventing the importation of these products.
Canada’s response to forced labor contrasts sharply with stronger enforcement in countries like the United States, where authorities actively investigate and block goods linked to exploitation. Tellingly, the US recently launched an investigation into whether Canada and other countries are doing enough to prevent imports made with forced labor. And this probe could have serious consequences. Canada already faces the threat of new tariffs from the US administration. Amidst fraying ties with the US, Canada seems to be pursuing a closer relationship with China. And advocates worry that Canada’s already poor “track record” will become worse.