CBP Issues Withhold Release Order on Somali Frankincense Supplier
CBP has issued a withhold release order, effective immediately, against frankincense supplier Asli Maydi of Somaliland over the alleged use of forced labor, the agency said Nov. 1.
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CBP informed its personnel to detain frankincense and frankincense-based products from Asli Maydi. These products are commonly used in essential oils for fragrance and skincare, CBP said.
After investigating Asli Maydi using forced labor indicators established by the International Labour Organization, CBP suspects the frankincense supplier engages in deception, physical violence, abusive working conditions, intimidation and threats, and withholding of wages.
According to the release, CBP currently oversees and enforces 52 WROs and eight findings.
“Trading in goods made with forced labor is in direct opposition to American values. When goods are manufactured at the cost of someone’s health, safety, or freedom, we all lose,” acting CBP Commissioner Troy Miller said. “CBP will continue to pursue aggressive enforcement actions to hold unscrupulous businesses, importers, and manufacturers around the world accountable.”
A CBP cargo systems message said importers of products detained under WROs may contest the detention and have three months to provide admissibility documentation or dispose of said merchandise.