"Open Letter To The NZ Government - Take Action On Modern Slavery Legislation", 26 March 2024

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In 2022, New Zealand imported $7.9B of ‘risky goods’ associated with child and forced labour. This amounts to 10% of our country’s total imports. Every week, New Zealand households unknowingly spend an average of $77 on these ‘risky goods’ - more than they spend on electricity (2).

We urge your government to take action and make progress on this issue by introducing modern slavery legislation in New Zealand.

...But we have since been told that your government has “yet to make a decision” on this proposal (3).

The decision to delay modern slavery legislation affects everyone, from the bottom of the supply chain to the end consumer. Urgent action is needed.

Not only does this lag put New Zealand behind other OECD countries, but it affects businesses that are trying to do the right thing as they continue operating in a market where unfair competition can thrive due to unethical labour practices.

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There is no need for any more hold-ups. We ask once again that your National-led coalition government make urgent progress on this issue.

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