WASHINGTON: The United States government ordered Wednesday’s cessation to import disposable gloves from Malaysian companies and their subsidiaries after determining them to rely on forced labor.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued orders to stop shipping inbound from Berhad Supermax Corporation and three subsidiaries.
CBP said the company’s investigation found 10 indications of forced labor, which usually included things such as intimidation, threats, and cutting wages, based on international standards.
The agency identified a subsidiary as Maxter Gloves Manufacturing Maxwell Gloves and Supermax Gloves.
“Until producers can prove their manufacturing processes free of forced labor, their goods are not accepted here,” Annmarie Highsmith, Commissioner of the Trade Office Executive Assistant, said while announcing orders.
Malaysian rubber gloves have been under supervision of harassment practices, and this year lowered Malaysia to the worst level in the annual report on human trafficking.
In response, the Malaysian government promised to take steps to eliminate forced labor.
The US raised the same order for other Malaysian gloves producers, Top Glove Corporation, Berhad, after the company discussed forced labor indicators in manufacturing facilities.
Supermax Corporation, who said selling its products in 165 countries, did not immediately respond to a comment request.