The Executive Branch issued Decree No. 502-26, which establishes the administrative procedure to prevent, identify, and restrict the importation of merchandise, products, and goods produced, in whole or in part, through forced labor, strengthening the protection of human rights and compliance with international commitments assumed by the Dominican Republic.
In the document, the General Directorate of Customs (DGA) is authorized to order, through a reasoned decision, the prohibition of the importation of merchandise, products, or goods when it is determined that they were produced using forced labor.
It also establishes that administrative measures will be applicable to goods that have already set sail, are in ports, or are subject to any customs regime or operation
prior to its importation or definitive entry into the national territory.
In addition, the DGA may order, as appropriate, the re-exportation to the country of origin or to another authorized destination, as well as its destruction or any other legally appropriate measure.
This institution must, likewise, maintain an administrative record of the merchandise, products, and goods whose importation has been prohibited.
International cooperation
Likewise, the strengthening of international cooperation, the exchange of information, and the adoption of best practices with organizations and authorities of other States are promoted to identify goods potentially produced through forced labor.
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Interinstitutional coordination
Another of the articles contained in Decree No. 502-26 provides for inter-institutional coordination between the General Directorate of Customs, the Ministry of Labor, the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other competent entities to strengthen prevention and control in international trade.
