Israel Bans Import of Goods Made by Forced Labor in Historic Move

Israel's Economic Committee has unanimously approved a new regulation banning the import of products manufactured using forced labor, marking the first time such a measure has been enacted in the country. Initiated by the Ministry of Economy, the regulation aims to combat forced labor and align Israel's trade policies with those of the European Union. The law defines forced labor as any work or service demanded under threat of punishment that a person does not offer voluntarily.

The regulation also establishes a framework for adding specific products to the banned list, subject to review and reapproval by the Economic Committee, including mechanisms for appeals and grace periods to allow businesses to adjust. This move is expected to help Israel petition the U.S. government to reduce tariffs on Israeli exports from 12.5% to 10%, following the U.S. imposition of a 12.5% tariff partly due to Israel's previous lack of formal rules against importing forced labor goods.

The policy was developed under the guidance of Professor Avi Simhon from the National Economic Council. During the committee discussion, Acting Chair Alon Schuster emphasized the ethical responsibility of the state to balance economic freedom with human welfare, highlighting the importance of considering the human cost behind products. The regulation reflects growing awareness of human trafficking victims in Israel and aims to protect workers' rights while ensuring fair trade practices.