Economist Podcasts High threat-count: boycotts in China
Mar 30, 2021
Simon Rabinovich, Asia economics editor based in Shanghai, and Georgia Banjo, a writer for The Economist, delve into the rising consumer boycotts of Western brands in China amidst political tensions over human rights issues. They explore how these boycotts impact trade and ethical business practices. Additionally, Georgia highlights the overlooked connection between traumatic brain injuries and criminal behavior, examining how this affects individuals in the justice system. The duo also touches on the rise of Clubhouse in the Arab world as a space for free expression amid strict media controls.
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H&M Boycott in China
- H&M stores are closing across China amid political tensions over sanctions and human rights.
- This follows coordinated sanctions by Western governments and a Chinese consumer boycott of companies like H&M.
Boycott Playbook
- Foreign brands in China often follow a familiar playbook after consumer boycotts: apologize, retract, stay quiet, and reemerge.
- The Chinese market's vast potential incentivizes companies to endure temporary setbacks.
Xinjiang Cotton Controversy
- Western clothing brands face boycotts in China for statements on Xinjiang cotton and alleged forced labor.
- The boycotts escalated after coordinated sanctions on Chinese officials by Western governments.