Lawyers have filed a lawsuit against Bumble Bee Seafoods on behalf of four Indonesian fishermen. These fishermen allege they were subjected to forced labour on vessels supplying tuna to the company. This case is reportedly the first of its kind against a US seafood firm, according to their lawyer, Agnieszka Fryszman. She emphasised the need for accountability among US companies benefiting from such practices.

The lawsuit accuses Bumble Bee, based in San Diego, of breaching the Trafficking Victims Protection Act. This law permits foreign victims of human trafficking to sue US businesses that knowingly profit from forced labour. Bumble Bee declined to comment on the ongoing litigation when contacted by The Associated Press.

Allegations of Abuse and Forced Labour

The fishermen, hailing from Indonesian villages, worked on longline vessels owned by Chinese companies. These vessels supplied albacore tuna to Bumble Bee. They claim they were regularly beaten by their captains. Akhmad, one fisherman, recounted being struck with a metal hook and forced to work despite a severe leg injury. Another fisherman, Syafii, reported receiving no medical care for burns and being compelled to work to afford food.

According to the lawsuit, the men attempted to strike and requested to return home. However, supply ships kept the boats at sea while providing provisions and collecting catches. The fishermen were burdened with debts from food bills and other fees, facing fines if they quit.

Historical Context and Industry Issues

Fryszman highlighted that Bumble Bee had been warned about inhumane conditions in its supply chain over the years. In 2020, reports of abusive conditions led the US to stop imports from a Taiwan-based fishing vessel linked to Bumble Bee’s parent company. Although these fishermen did not work on that vessel, their experiences reflect broader industry issues.

The global fishing industry has long struggled with labour abuses. In 2016, Congress granted the US government more power to combat forced labour following an investigation revealing seafood caught by slaves in Southeast Asia was reaching US markets.

Seeking Compensation and Systemic Changes

The lawsuit seeks compensation for unpaid wages and abuse suffered by the fishermen. Fryszman stated that they also aim for systemic changes within the industry. They propose that companies like Bumble Bee require vessels in their supply chain to bring their catch ashore instead of staying at sea. Additionally, they advocate for onboard medical care and Wi-Fi access for workers.

In 2018, Fryszman represented two Indonesian fishermen who claimed enslavement on an American fishing boat. They settled their lawsuit against the California-based owner after seven years and received special US visas as human trafficking victims.

This case underscores ongoing challenges in addressing forced labour within global supply chains and highlights the need for continued vigilance and reform in the fishing industry.