Zijin responds to US copper import ban over forced labor allegations

Serbia Zijin Copper has acknowledged the seriousness of a U.S. ban on its copper imports, which stems from allegations of forced labor in its production processes. The company confirmed it is aware of the decision by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and is currently undertaking a comprehensive human rights assessment.

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The company opposes all forms of forced labor and remains committed to complying with all applicable laws, including those of the United States, as well as internationally recognized labor and human rights standards.

The CBP issued a Withhold Release Order, effective immediately, directing U.S. ports of entry to detain shipments of copper and copper products manufactured by Serbia Zijin Copper D.O.O. This action is based on evidence indicating the use of forced labor in the manufacturing of these goods.

In response, Serbia Zijin Copper stated its opposition to all forms of forced labor and reaffirmed its commitment to complying with all applicable laws, including those of the United States, and internationally recognized labor and human rights standards. The company emphasized that any assessment of labor and human rights should be grounded in objective, sufficient, transparent, and verifiable facts.

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The company is currently conducting a comprehensive review and assessment of the relevant issues, in accordance with its long-standing commitment to lawful and compliant business operations and the continuous improvement of labor rights protections.

The Office of the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality in Serbia confirmed it is monitoring the case, along with others, but clarified that it does not have jurisdiction over this specific matter. The company maintains that it places a high priority on preventing forced labor within its operations and is committed to lawful and compliant business practices.

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The company maintains that any assessment pertaining to labor and human rights, including the one currently underway, should be based on objective, sufficient, transparent, and verifiable facts, while taking all relevant information into account.