The New Zealand Government has openly committed to eradicating forced labour and modern slavery. However, while commitments have been made, to date, no action has progressed.
On 16 March 2021, 85 leading New Zealand companies signed an open letter requesting that the New Zealand Government start an inquiry into a Modern Slavery Act for New Zealand business and public sector supply chains.
Modern Slavery legislation requires public and private entities to report on the risks of modern slavery in their businesses and supply chains and what actions they are taking to address them. A Modern Slavery Act for New Zealand should consider all global developments taking place, including human rights due diligence in Europe, the UK and Australian Modern Slavery acts, and the banning of imports linked to forced labour.