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Banning Imports from Congo Linked to Child Labor and China's Exploitation

This act aims to block the import of goods into the U.S., especially metals and minerals like cobalt and lithium, from the Democratic Republic of Congo if they were produced using child or forced labor. It seeks to protect human rights and limit China's dominance in the global supply chain of critical raw materials. Citizens can expect greater assurance that the products they purchase are not made under unethical conditions.
Key points
Import Ban: Goods from Congo, including cobalt and lithium, produced with child or forced labor, will be prohibited from entering the U.S.
Combating Child Labor: Enforcement and diplomatic strategies will be implemented to combat child labor in Congolese mines.
Sanctions: Individuals and companies involved in child or forced labor in Congo, as well as those attempting to circumvent U.S. import laws, may face sanctions, including asset freezes and visa bans.
Support for Congo: The U.S. will increase efforts to help Congo prevent child and forced labor by supporting transparency and local community development.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_4443
Sponsor: Rep. Smith, Christopher H. [R-NJ-4]
Process start date: 2023-06-30
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Countering China’s Exploitation of Strategic Metals and Minerals and Child and Forced Labor in the Democratic Republic of the Congo Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_4443.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-06-30.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Import Ban: Goods from Congo, including cobalt and lithium, produced with child or forced labor, will be prohibited from entering the U.S.
  • Combating Child Labor: Enforcement and diplomatic strategies will be implemented to combat child labor in Congolese mines.
  • Sanctions: Individuals and companies involved in child or forced labor in Congo, as well as those attempting to circumvent U.S. import laws, may face sanctions, including asset freezes and visa bans.
  • Support for Congo: The U.S. will increase efforts to help Congo prevent child and forced labor by supporting transparency and local community development.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Smith, Christopher H. [R-NJ-4].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Trade.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

CATEGORIES

Labor Security Economy