Mission and Strategy

Ushering in a new era of American worker dominance in global supply chains

American workers deserve a fair shot in the global economy. That’s why we push for strong, enforceable labor rules in trade agreements in critical supply chains to ensure American workers dominate in international trade.

We work with trade partners to raise labor standards and combat unfair practices like wage suppression and forced labor that hurt American workers and businesses.

Working closely with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), we ensure that U.S. trading partners fulfill their labor-related trade commitments to the U.S. This includes vigorous enforcement of our trade deals so other countries can’t undercut U.S. workers through abusive labor practices.

We also support the Department’s effort to train the next generation of skilled workers through international partnerships that deliver real benefits at home.

Stopping the egregious labor practices of our trading partners and foreign adversaries

American workers shouldn’t have to compete with exploited labor. No American business should have to compete with companies abroad that cut corners on labor rights. We expose these abuses and hold bad actors accountable—so American businesses and workers aren’t undercut by exploitation overseas.

We investigate and report on labor abuses around the world, helping stop goods produced with cheap, exploited labor from flooding our market and competing unfairly with American-made goods. We work closely with Customs and Border Protection to ensure these goods never reach our shores.

As part of the Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force, we inform efforts to stop goods made with forced labor in China before they enter the U.S. Our expertise drives enforcement of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act to protect American workers and keep tainted products off our shelves.

We also support supply chain transparency and tools to help U.S. businesses make smart, responsible sourcing choices that shield them from reputational risk.

Advancing the interests of American workers and enterprise on the global stage

American workers always win when we advance their interests on the global stage. We advocate for Administration labor and employment priorities within international forums, making sure global labor rules reflect U.S. values. Our engagements with foreign governments, businesses, and other organizations further advance President Trump’s America First Trade Policy. Our priorities include:

• Supporting fair wages and safe working conditions worldwide;
• Promoting high-quality apprenticeships and workforce training;
• Preventing regulation of the platform economy and of artificial intelligence which harms American worker and business interests;
• Restoring American fishing and seafood competitiveness; and
• Protecting access to critical minerals and resources that are vital to our economy and national security.

In every engagement, we put America’s workers and businesses first. Our goal is to ensure the U.S. leads on the global stage in shaping labor and employment policies that benefit our nation.