The United States lifts an import ban on Malaysian Smart Gloves after the corporate improved its labor practices
The United States has lifted a 17-month import ban on products from Malaysian rubber glove maker Smart Glove, saying the corporate engaged in exploitative labor practices.
In November 2021, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) imposed sanctions on imports from Smart Glove and its group of corporations over the alleged use of forced labor at its manufacturing facilities.
Smart Glove, which produces gloves utilized in the medical and food industries, subsequently stated that it opposes forced labor and cares in regards to the well-being of its employees.
Malaysia’s largest palm oil producer has been cleared by the US of forced labor allegations
Malaysia’s largest palm oil producer has been cleared by the US of forced labor allegations
In a press release Wednesday, CBP said Smart Glove has taken various remedial measures, including repaying recruitment fees incurred by migrant employees. Activists say burdensome fees end in debt bondage.
CBP says Smart Glove has also improved worker living conditions and implemented latest employee-focused policies and procedures.
Smart Glove said in a press release that the lifting of the import ban “allows us to once more fully meet the needs of our valued customers within the United States.”
The company added that it has implemented a “zero-cost” recruitment policy, modernized worker housing and created an anonymous reporting channel through which employees can contact management on any issues.
Malaysian corporations, including a number of the world’s major suppliers of palm oil and medical gloves, have come under increased scrutiny over suspicions of exploiting foreign employees who make up a big a part of the country’s workforce.
