US lifts ban on Top Glove

Glove maker Top Glove has been allowed to resume exporting and selling gloves to the US following its ban over allegations of abuse involving forced labour.

In its most recent finding, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said it was no longer necessary to maintain the decision in March to seize products made by Top Glove at US ports of entry.

“CBP has now determined, based upon additional information, that such merchandise is no longer being, or is likely to be, imported into the US in violation of Section 307 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended,” it said.

CBP had on July 15, 2020 issued a withhold release order on disposable gloves which it said were “reasonably indicated” to be manufactured by forced labour in Malaysia through Top Glove.

It said an investigation had found sufficient information to support this finding, following which another was issued on March 29 this year.

“Since that time, Top Glove has provided additional information to CBP, which CBP believes establishes by satisfactory evidence that the subject disposable gloves are no longer mined, produced, or manufactured in any part with forced labour,” it said.

In a statement, Top Glove hailed the modified finding which takes effect today.

“Top Glove remains committed to the health, safety and well-being of its people,” it said.

“The company will continue to work hard and smart towards becoming an industry leader in this area and meeting the growing expectations of its stakeholders.”