Regulation (EU) 2024/3015 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 November 2024 on prohibiting products made with forced labour on the Union market and amending Directive (EU) 2019/1937 (Text with EEA relevance)

Essence of the act:
This Regulation prohibits products made with forced labor from being placed on the EU market or exported from the EU. It establishes a comprehensive framework for investigating suspected cases of forced labor in supply chains, enforcing the prohibition, and requiring the withdrawal of non-compliant products. The Regulation aims to improve the functioning of the internal market while contributing to the global fight against forced labor.Structure and main provisions:
The Regulation consists of 6 chapters covering:- General provisions including scope and definitions- Governance framework establishing a Union Network Against Forced Labor Products- Investigation procedures for suspected violations- Decision-making process for confirmed violations- Enforcement mechanisms including customs controls- Final provisions on penalties and evaluationKey provisions:
1. Economic operators are prohibited from placing or making available products made with forced labor on the EU market or exporting such products2. A risk-based investigation system is established where competent authorities can:- Request information from economic operators- Conduct investigations including field inspections- Order the withdrawal and disposal of non-compliant products- Impose penalties for violations3. Specific measures include:- Creation of a database of forced labor risks- Establishment of a single information submission point- Special support measures for SMEs- Enhanced customs controls at EU borders- International cooperation mechanisms4. The Regulation introduces detailed procedural requirements for:- Conducting investigations- Making and reviewing decisions- Enforcing compliance- Protecting confidential information- Imposing effective penalties

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