Ad Hoc Working Group on Canadian Forced Labour

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The Canadian Chamber is establishing an ad hoc Working Group on Canadian Forced Labour to support the Canadian business community’s response to addressing the risk of forced labour in Canadian supply chains.

The Working Group will serve as a forum for experienced and directly impacted members to identify practical challenges, share expertise and provide real-world perspectives that will inform the Canadian Chamber’s technical response on forced labour to the Canadian government and the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR).

Background

On June 2, 2026, the USTR proposed a 10% additional tariff on Canadian goods under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, finding that Canada has failed to effectively enforce its forced labour import prohibition. Written comments are due before July 6. Public hearings are scheduled for July 7, 2026.

On June 12, 2026, the Government of Canada tabled Bill C-35, introducing a ministerial list of goods at risk of forced labour, enhanced border documentation requirements, and a deemed prohibition for importers of listed goods unable to provide required supply chain information

About the Working Group

The Working Group will serve as a forum for experienced and directly impacted members to identify practical challenges, share expertise and provide real-world perspectives that will inform the Canadian Chamber’s technical response to the Government of Canada and the USTR. Specifically, the Working Group will:

• Gather member experience and expertise on forced labour regulations, reporting obligations and enforcement practices.
• Identify practical challenges associated with supply chain mapping, due diligence, compliance and verification.
• Assess the potential impacts of proposed U.S. and Canadian policy measures on businesses operating across integrated North American supply chains.
• Support the development of Canadian Chamber submissions, advocacy positions and engagement strategies related to forced labour and supply chain integrity.

The Working Group will operate on a time-limited basis and report its findings to the Canadian Chamber’s international policy team. Membership is by invitation and open to members of the Canadian Chamber with direct experience and exposure to the issues surrounding forced labour.

Member Input and Working Group Participation

Members with direct experience and exposure to forced labour issues are encouraged to complete the survey. Responses will inform the Canadian Chamber’s government engagement and USTR submission and will help identify members best positioned to contribute to the Working Group.

Resources

United States Trade Representative: USTR Makes Findings and Proposes Action in 60 Section 301 Investigations Relating to Failures to Take Action on Trade in Forced Labor Goods

Government of Canada: Canada tables legislation to strengthen prohibition on goods produced with forced labour