Trump lifts Central Romana sugar ban despite labor concerns

The Trump administration has lifted a ban on Central Romana, a major sugar producer from the Dominican Republic. The ban was imposed due to allegations of forced labor at the company. This move allows Central Romana to export sugar to the United States again. U.S. Customs and Border Protection changed the status of a previous “withhold release order” from 2022, which blocked the company’s sugar products. Labor groups are unhappy with this decision. They argue that working conditions have not improved enough to justify lifting the ban. Allie Brudney, a senior staff attorney at Corporate Accountability Lab, expressed disappointment. She stated that significant changes in labor practices have not been seen. The U.S. official, who wished to remain anonymous, indicated that the decision may have been influenced by Central Romana’s strong political connections. Hilton Beckham, an assistant commissioner at Customs and Border Protection, confirmed the order modification. She stated that the decision was based on “documented improvements” to labor standards verified by independent groups. Beckham emphasized that customs officials will continue to enforce laws against forced labor.