Senator Rick Scott has raised concerns about the safety and ethical implications of importing garlic from China. In letters to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), United States Trade Representative (USTR), and Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB), he urged an investigation into reports that Chinese garlic is grown in unsanitary conditions, including human sewage, and involves forced and child labor.
Scott's letter to the USDA highlights the lack of oversight on imports from China, potentially exposing American consumers to substandard food products. He also requested a Section 301 investigation by the USTR to assess whether China's trade practices regarding garlic are unfair or harmful to U.S. commerce. The senator pointed out issues such as forced labor and tariff evasion in these practices.
Additionally, Scott asked ILAB to consider including Chinese garlic in its List of Goods Produced by Child Labor or Forced Labor, which is updated every two years.
Senator Scott has been vocal about the risks associated with goods produced in China and previously introduced legislation aimed at addressing these concerns regarding Chinese garlic.
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