By Juliet Ezeh
Nigeria has been listed among dozens of economies now facing scrutiny from the United States as Washington intensifies efforts to curb global trade linked to forced labour.
The investigation, announced by the Office of the United States Trade Representative, will examine whether Nigeria and 59 other economies have failed to properly block the importation of goods produced under forced labour conditions.
The probe was launched under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, a powerful trade enforcement mechanism frequently used by the US government to challenge practices it believes unfairly disadvantage American companies.
Why the United States Launched the Investigation
According to the notice issued by the United States Trade Representative and signed by General Counsel Jennifer Thornton, the investigation began on March 12, 2026.
The review will determine whether the trade policies of the affected economies are “unreasonable or discriminatory” and whether they create an uneven playing field for American businesses.
Officials in Washington argue that while many countries outlaw forced labour within their borders, some still allow imports of goods produced under exploitative conditions elsewhere in global supply chains.
This loophole, the agency said, can enable companies to benefit from lower production costs tied to labour exploitation, thereby distorting global competition.
Nigeria Among Major Economies Named
Nigeria appears on the list alongside several major global economies including China, India, Brazil, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Canada and the European Union.
The investigation will focus on whether these economies have implemented or effectively enforced laws banning imports of goods produced with forced labour.
Under long-standing US legislation, products mined, manufactured or produced wholly or partly with forced labour are prohibited from entering American markets.
Officials say the policy reflects not only trade concerns but also humanitarian and national security considerations.
Forced Labour Still Widespread Globally
Data cited in the investigation from the International Labour Organization highlights the scale of the issue.
The organisation estimates that around 28 million people were trapped in forced labour worldwide as of 2021, representing roughly 3.5 individuals per 1,000 people globally.
The number increased by about 2.7 million between 2016 and 2021, largely driven by exploitation in private-sector industries.
The ILO also estimates that profits generated annually from forced labour in the global private economy reached $63.9 billion in 2024.
Industries Under Scrutiny
US officials warned that forced labour affects entire international supply chains.
Products commonly linked to the practice include agricultural goods, textiles, minerals, seafood products and palm oil derivatives used in both food production and biofuel manufacturing.
According to the USTR, such goods can re-enter international markets even after being denied entry into the United States, creating competitive disadvantages for American exporters.
Next Steps in the Investigation
As part of the review, US authorities will consult with governments of the affected economies and gather submissions from businesses, labour organisations and other stakeholders.
The agency has invited written comments addressing whether countries listed in the investigation have existing laws or are developing policies to prevent the importation of goods made with forced labour.
The outcome of the probe could influence future US trade measures and potentially lead to new restrictions or negotiations involving the economies under review.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.