Indonesian fishermen sue Bumble Bee and say the canned tuna giant knew of abuse in its supply chain

Lawyers for four Indonesian fishermen recently filed a lawsuit against Bumble Bee Seafoods, alleging forced labor practices linked to the tuna provided by the company. This case is believed to be the first of its kind against a U.S. seafood company, highlighting serious concerns surrounding human trafficking in the industry. The men's lawyer, Agnieszka Fryszman, emphasized the need for accountability for companies benefiting from such labor practices.

The lawsuit claims that Bumble Bee violated the Trafficking Victims Protection Act by profiting from forced labor on vessels owned by Chinese companies from which it sourced albacore tuna. The fishermen, all from Indonesian villages, reported horrific treatment, including regular beatings and inadequate medical care for injuries sustained at sea. One fisherman recounted being struck with a metal hook and forced to continue working despite serious injuries.

Fryszman pointed out that Bumble Bee had been warned about inhumane conditions in its supply chain. There have been previous reports of similar abuses, which led the U.S. government to halt imports from a Taiwanese vessel linked to Bumble Bee in 2020, although none of the plaintiffs worked on that specific ship. The current lawsuit seeks reparations for the plaintiffs' unpaid wages and the abusive conditions they endured.

Beyond monetary compensation, the suit aims to initiate systemic changes within Bumble Bee's operations. The fishermen are advocating for contracts that require vessels to return to port rather than remain at sea, the provision of medical care on board, and better communication options for the workers.

The fishing industry has faced ongoing scrutiny over labor violations, leading to legislative efforts in the U.S. aimed at combating forced labor. Fryszman previously represented Indonesian fishermen in a lawsuit against an American fishing boat, resulting in a settlement years after their escape. The current case serves as a further reminder of the urgent need for reform within the global seafood supply chain.