PROPOSAL TO BAN PRODUCTS WITH FORCED LABOUR FROM EU MARKET
On 14 September, the Commission proposed to prohibit products made with forced labour on the EU market. The proposal covers all products, namely those made in the EU for domestic consumption and exports, and imported goods, without targeting specific companies or industries.
National authorities in the Member States will implement the prohibition through a robust, risk-based enforcement approach. Following an investigation, if national authorities find forced labour, they will order the withdrawal of the products already placed on the market, and prohibit to place the products on the market, and to export them. Companies will be required to dispose of the goods.
Member States' customs authorities will be in charge of enforcement at the EU borders. Customs will reply on the decisions by Member States' competent authorities to identify the products concerned and carry out controls on imports and exports.
The Commission proposal now needs to be discussed and agreed by the European Parliament and the EU Council before it can enter into force.
Source: European Commission