Govt bans imports linked to forced labour

Importers must certify goods are labour-free under stricter verification rules

ISLAMABAD:

In a significant policy move aligned with international labour standards, the federal government has imposed a blanket ban on the import of goods produced through forced labour, tightening compliance requirements for importers across all sectors.

According to a statutory regulatory order (SRO) issued by the Ministry of Commerce, no products will be allowed into the country if they are found to have been manufactured, wholly or partially, using forced labour, regardless of their country of origin or the entity involved.

The SRO further makes it mandatory for importers to provide verifiable proof that their goods are free from forced labour, introducing a stricter documentation regime aimed at ensuring transparency in global supply chains.

The SRO amends the Import Policy Order, 2022, under Section 3 of the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, 1950. It states that "import of goods mined, produced or manufactured wholly or partly by forced labour from any entity or country is prohibited."

It further says: "The Federal Government, pursuant to determinations by the International Labour Organization (ILO), shall from time to time notify such goods, entities and countries of origin to which this restriction shall apply."

"Importers of goods from notified countries shall be required to furnish documentary evidence or certification, as may be prescribed from time to time, to establish that the goods sought to be imported are not mined, produced or manufactured through forced labour."

Officials said the ban will apply across all relevant sectors, signalling a comprehensive approach rather than a limited or industry-specific restriction. Under the new framework, the government will identify goods, entities and countries where forced labour is suspected, drawing on internationally recognised benchmarks and guidelines.

Following such identification, a dedicated scrutiny mechanism will be introduced for imports originating from flagged regions, subjecting them to enhanced inspection and verification procedures.

Importers will also be required to submit certified documentation or other acceptable evidence from relevant authorities to demonstrate that no forced labour was involved at any stage of the production process.

The SRO adds that identification of high-risk goods and regions will be carried out in line with parameters set by the International Labour Organization, reinforcing Pakistan's commitment to globally accepted labour practices.