French sports giant tied to forced labor in China, claims probe
French media reports allege retailer sources textiles from supplier linked to Uyghur forced labor
PARIS (MNTV) — A French media investigation has accused a major sports retailer of sourcing textiles from a Chinese company allegedly linked to forced labor involving Uyghurs.
The findings, revealed by Disclose and the France 2 program “Cash Investigation,” claim that the retailer has maintained commercial ties with Qingdao Jifa, a Chinese textile supplier accused of using forced labor networks.
The report alleges that cotton used in some of its products may originate from Chinese-occupied Eastern Turkestan, officially known as Xinjiang.
Uyghur Muslims make up the majority ethnic group in the region.
Human rights groups have documented extensive forced labor programs in the region, mostly employing ethnic Muslims.
The Cash Investigation documentary presents testimony from a local executive in China who suggests that materials used in the retailer’s products could be traced back to the controversial cotton supply chains in Xinjiang.
The investigation further explores how Qingdao Jifa has allegedly benefited from Beijing’s labor transfer programs, which critics say forcibly relocate Uyghurs to work in factories under heavy surveillance and harsh conditions.
The report raises concerns over supply chain transparency, as Western countries have tightened regulations against imports linked to forced labor.
In 2021, the United States passed legislation banning goods from Chinese-occupied territory unless companies can prove their supply chains are free from forced labor.
This places the retailer in a difficult position, particularly regarding its NBA-branded products, which it has been selling since 2021.
Human rights groups and NGOs have long accused China of operating vast labor programs that forcibly employ Uyghurs in industries such as textiles and manufacturing.
Beijing denies these claims, insisting that its policies in Xinjiang are aimed at economic development and countering extremism.
At the center of the controversy is whether multinational brands can fully trace their supply chains and verify the ethics of their sourcing practices.
The investigation puts renewed pressure on companies to prove compliance with human rights standards, particularly as international watchdogs continue to track alleged labor violations in China.
Retailer denies forced labor ties
The French sports giant confirmed that it works with Qingdao Jifa but strongly denied any involvement in forced labor practices.
“We strongly condemn all forms of forced labor. We are committed to ensuring integrity and respect for fundamental rights in our activities and value chain,” the company said in a statement to AFP.
The retailer emphasized that it sources 100% of its cotton from responsible suppliers, including organic and recycled cotton, ensuring compliance with ethical labor standards.
The allegations, however, add to growing scrutiny over how global brands monitor their supply chains, particularly in China, where concerns over forced labor persist.
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