Asli Maydi, a company based in Somaliland that produces frankincense, is facing sanctions from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), resulting in the confiscation of its products at all U.S. ports.
The sanctions are a response to serious allegations of forced labor practices within the company, prompting officials to take action to detain frankincense and related products sourced from Asli Maydi. This aromatic resin, known for its historical significance, has raised concerns regarding the conditions under which it is produced.
Frankincense, an ancient commodity obtained from the resin of Boswellia trees, is commonly used in essential oils for fragrance and skincare. The CBP has indicated that there is substantial evidence supporting claims that Asli Maydi has engaged in deceptive practices, physical violence, intimidation, and wage withholding against its workers.
These actions have been deemed contrary to American values, which prioritize health, safety, and freedom in the workplace.
Asli Maydi Faces U.S. Sanctions Over Allegations of Forced Labor Practices in Frankincense Production
The legal framework in the U.S. prohibits the importation of goods produced by forced or child labor, and such products are subject to seizure.
Investigative reports from The Fuller Project and The Guardian have highlighted numerous allegations against Asli Maydi, revealing that female workers claim to be routinely underpaid and subjected to harsh working conditions. Additionally, the company is reported to be led by a powerful individual accused of sexual harassment and assault, raising serious ethical questions about its labor practices.
In response to these allegations, Barkhad Hassan, the owner of Asli Maydi, has publicly denied any wrongdoing. However, doTERRA, a Utah-based essential oils company that previously partnered with Asli Maydi, terminated its contract following an independent investigation that corroborated some claims regarding the company’s labor practices.
While doTERRA could not validate the specific sexual harassment claims against Hassan, it underscored its commitment to treating all allegations seriously.
The situation escalated further when Asli Maydi reportedly retaliated against doTERRA by taking control of a healthcare facility owned by the U.S. company in Somaliland, which led to the forced evacuation of patients and staff.
In light of these events, doTERRA is now pursuing legal action to facilitate the transfer of the healthcare facility to Somaliland’s Ministry of Health Development. This unfolding scenario highlights the pressing issues of labor exploitation and the need for accountability within supply chains for products in the essential oils industry.
