The US quietly lifts a ban on a major Dominican sugar producer that has long been accused of forced and exploitative child labor. According to the Dominican Times, exports from Central Romana Corporation will resume shipping sugar and related products to the US. Labor rights groups warn that this move undermines the fight against forced labor and raises ethical concerns over the politicization of enforcing human rights.

Ignoring forced labor allegations

Credible allegations of exploitative labor practices by Central Romana Corporation led the Biden administration to ban imports from the company in 2022. Accusers claimed that the company withheld wages, forced excessive overtime, and maintained abusive working and living conditions for its employees.

Despite these well-documented concerns, according to The New York Times, the ban order is now listed as “inactive” on the US customs website. Labor rights advocates warn that this decision is not based on meaningful improvements in working conditions. Allie Brundey, a senior staff attorney from Corporate Accountability Lab (CAL) states,

“We haven’t seen a significant enough change to warrant modification. This is a disappointing outcome, but we will continue to support workers in their fight for better conditions.”

Read more