What is the EU Forced Labour Regulation?

Dutch term: Verordening dwangarbeid | Legal basis: Regulation (EU) 2024/3015

The EU Forced Labour Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2024/3015) prohibits the placing on the EU market and the export from the EU of products made with forced labour at any stage of the supply chain. National and EU authorities can investigate, order withdrawal and require disposal of products found to be produced with forced labour.

The regulation applies from 14 December 2027. It does not impose a standalone due diligence obligation (that sits with CSDDD), but it creates enforcement powers and remedies that go beyond the due diligence framework: authorities can ban specific products from the market and require their removal. The regulation covers all products, regardless of sector, origin or value.

Why it matters for international businesses

For manufacturers, importers and distributors placing products on the EU market, the forced labour prohibition adds a new enforcement dimension to supply chain compliance. Contractual supplier representations and audit rights are essential preparation.