US continues to target Chinese companies over "forced" labour in Xinjiang
US Expands Ban on Chinese Companies Over Forced Labor Concerns
The United States is increasing its efforts to prevent goods made with alleged forced labor in China's Xinjiang region from entering US markets. On November 22, the US Department of Homeland Security added 29 more Chinese companies to a blacklist under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA), bringing the total to 107 companies. This act, signed by President Joe Biden in December 2021, aims to stop the import of products linked to forced labor.
US Stance on Forced Labor
Robert Silvers, a senior official at the US Department of Homeland Security, emphasized that the US will not tolerate forced labor in goods entering its markets. The enforcement actions reflect the US's commitment to this stance.
China's Response
China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) strongly disagrees with the US actions, accusing the US of using Xinjiang's human rights issues to target Chinese companies. MOFCOM claims that China opposes forced labor and denies its existence in Xinjiang, labeling the US sanctions as unfair.
International Reports on Forced Labor
Many international organizations and independent reports have provided evidence of forced labor in Xinjiang. In August 2022, UN expert Tamoya Obokata reported clear evidence of forced labor among Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities, particularly in farming and manufacturing. Additionally, the Center for Advanced Defense Studies (C4ADS) reported in October that forced labor is also present in China's pharmaceutical industry, with abuses such as land confiscation and forced work in factories.
Doubts Revealed
US
US stands for the United States of America, which is a country in North America. It is known for being one of the world's largest economies and a major global power.
Chinese Companies
These are businesses that are based in China, which is a large country in Asia. China is known for its manufacturing and exports.
Forced Labor
Forced labor means making people work against their will, often in harsh conditions. It is considered a violation of human rights.
Xinjiang
Xinjiang is a region in the northwest of China. It is home to many ethnic groups, including the Uyghurs, who are a Muslim minority.
US Department of Homeland Security
This is a part of the US government responsible for protecting the country from threats and ensuring public safety.
Blacklist
A blacklist is a list of people or companies that are being punished or restricted because they are believed to have done something wrong.
Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act
This is a law in the US that aims to stop products made with forced labor in Xinjiang from being sold in the US.
China disputes these claims
This means that China disagrees with the accusations made by the US about forced labor in Xinjiang.
International organizations
These are groups that work across different countries to address global issues, like the United Nations.
Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceuticals are medicines and drugs that are used to treat illnesses and improve health.
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