India Bans Import of Goods Produced Using Forced Labour

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Dated: 16.07.2026

India Bans Import of Goods Produced Using Forced Labour

India has taken a significant step towards upholding human rights and ethical trade practices by introducing a new prohibition on the import of goods produced using forced labour. This move, formalized through Notification No. 23/2026-27 by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), amends the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 and aligns India with global efforts to combat forced labour in international supply chains.

What Does the New Notification Say?

The notification inserts two new paragraphs into the FTP 2023:

1. Para 2.20B: Prohibition of Import of Goods Produced Using Forced Labour

Scope: The import of goods produced or manufactured, wholly or in part, through the use of forced labour is now prohibited.
Government Authority: The Central Government is empowered to specify, via further notifications, which goods are subject to this prohibition. This decision will be based on findings from official enquiries or other relevant material.
Enquiry Process: The procedure for investigating the use of forced labour in the production of goods will be detailed in the Handbook of Procedures, 2023.

2. Para 11.64: Definition of Forced Labour

Definition: “Forced Labour” is defined as all work or service exacted from any person under the menace of any penalty and for which the person has not offered themselves voluntarily. This definition is in line with the International Labour Organization (ILO) Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29).

Why Is This Important?

Strengthening Ethical Trade: By prohibiting imports of goods made with forced labour, India is reinforcing its commitment to ethical sourcing and international labour standards.
Alignment with Global Norms: The definition of forced labour is harmonized with the ILO Convention, ensuring consistency with international best practices.
Empowering Authorities: The government now has clear legal authority to investigate and ban specific goods linked to forced labour, making enforcement more robust.

How Will the Policy Be Implemented?

Notification-Based Bans: The government will periodically notify the specific goods whose import is prohibited under this rule, based on investigations and credible information.
Enquiry Mechanism: The Director General of Foreign Trade will conduct enquiries as per the prescribed procedures to determine if forced labour has been used in the production of certain goods.
Effective Date: The new rules will come into effect 30 days after the publication of the notification in the Official Gazette.

Implications for Businesses and Importers

Compliance Requirements: Importers must ensure their supply chains are free from forced labour to avoid import bans and legal consequences.
Due Diligence: Businesses should strengthen their due diligence processes, including supplier audits and certifications, to demonstrate compliance.
Potential for Further Notifications: As the government identifies goods linked to forced labour, additional bans may be announced, requiring ongoing vigilance from importers.

Conclusion

India’s amendment to the Foreign Trade Policy marks a decisive move to eliminate forced labour from its import supply chains. By empowering authorities to investigate and ban goods produced under exploitative conditions, the country is taking a firm stand for human rights and ethical trade. Businesses must adapt quickly to these changes, ensuring transparency and responsibility throughout their sourcing practices.

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Source: DGFT

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