U.S. Investigates Nigeria for Forced Labor Trade Practices

The U.S. government, through the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), has launched a formal investigation into Nigeria and 59 other economies for allegedly failing to prevent the importation of goods produced by forced labor.

This investigation, initiated on March 12, 2026, will assess whether these trade practices adversely affect the U.S. economy and impose burdens on American commerce. The USTR, represented by General Counsel Jennifer Thornton, stated that the review will determine if Nigeria's economy has failed to enforce a ban on such imports.

The investigation includes countries like China, India, Brazil, and South Africa. The USTR's notice highlights that forced labor remains widespread globally, with an estimated 28 million people trapped in such conditions as of 2021.

The U.S. may impose additional duties or import restrictions based on the findings. Public hearings are scheduled to begin on April 28, 2026, with written comments due by April 15, 2026.