Finshots Daily How Xinjiang cotton still haunts the fashion industry
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Dec 2, 2024 The podcast dives into the troubling world of Xinjiang cotton and how it infiltrates global fashion supply chains. It uncovers allegations of forced labor and the ongoing controversies faced by major clothing brands. Listeners learn about the hurdles in achieving transparency in supply chains and the implications for ethical fashion. The discussion highlights the tangled web of sourcing practices that continue to haunt the industry, sparking important conversations about accountability and consumer awareness.
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Uniqlo's Xinjiang Cotton Controversy
- Uniqlo's CEO denied using Xinjiang cotton, causing backlash from Chinese consumers.
- The company had previously remained neutral on the issue, avoiding boycotts and outrage.
Xinjiang Cotton's Persistence
- Despite brands' efforts to avoid Xinjiang cotton, it still enters supply chains.
- Tests reveal its presence in nearly 20% of apparel from major retailers.
Exploiting the De Minimis Rule
- The De Minimis Rule, a loophole exploited by e-commerce companies, allowed unchecked imports.
- This made it difficult to track goods tied to forced labor until the US closed the loophole.