Israel Bans Import of Goods Made with Forced Labor to Combat Human Trafficking

On February 22, 2026, the Israeli government approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposal to prohibit the import of goods produced wholly or partly through forced labor. This decision aims to strengthen Israel's commitment to fighting human trafficking and forced labor while protecting the country's economic interests. The government instructed the Minister of Economy and Industry to establish regulations banning imports of products made with forced labor, aligned with international legal standards.

An interministerial team led by the National Economic Council in the Prime Minister's Office will develop an effective enforcement mechanism, to be presented to the government within 90 days. The government emphasized that this move places Israel alongside leading countries worldwide in preventing the entry of products made through exploitation into markets, enhancing Israel's credibility as a trade partner adhering to international standards.

Beyond the moral imperative, the government highlighted the economic benefits, stating the ban is expected to strengthen Israeli exporters' positions in global markets, improve trade conditions with key partners, and reduce trade barriers that harm Israel's competitiveness. The enforcement framework will include appointing an authorized decision-making body, setting professional criteria to identify forced labor products, establishing reporting mechanisms, and providing appeal processes to ensure effective enforcement and fair trade.

The government concluded that this decision reflects Israel's dedication to protecting human rights, promoting fair trade, bolstering the economy, and ensuring supply chains are based on responsibility, transparency, and fair competition.