Mexico Probes Forced Labor Claims At Tomato Export Firms

The CBP said in a statement on Thursday that effective Oct. 21 its officers at all US ports of entry would detain fresh tomatoes produced by the tomato farm Agropecuarios Tom S.A. de C.V., and Horticola S.A de C.V., and their subsidiaries, Anthony Esposito and Adriana Barrera reported for the Associated Press (AP).

Photo Insert: Tomato vines at a facility in Mexico

CBP issued a withhold release order against Agropecuarios, Horticola, and their subsidiaries based on information that reasonably indicates the use of forced labor against its workers.

Mexico's labor ministry said it has asked the economy ministry to open a communication channel with the companies, in coordination with the National Agricultural Council, and to carry out the corresponding investigations.

"If any breach of labor regulations is identified, a plan is established to guarantee the protection of workers' rights," the labor ministry said.

Following the CBP's order, "the tomato companies have the right to appeal the decision to the US customs authority and present evidence that demonstrates their compliance with labor regulations, in order for the sanction to be lifted," the ministry added.

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