Chinese cotton producers rejected U.S. allegations of forced labor…
Chinese cotton producers rejected U.S. allegations of forced labor involving Uyghurs, calling the sanctions a violation of international trade rules and a political move to restrict China's textile industry. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security added 43 Chinese companies to a blacklist over forced labor claims, while China's Cotton Association stated over 90% of cotton in Xinjiang is harvested using automated machinery.
Consensus
- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security added 43 companies to a blacklist for alleged use of forced labor involving Uyghurs.
- China's Cotton Association rejected the allegations, stating they lack factual and legal basis.
- Over 90% of cotton in Xinjiang is collected using automated machinery, covering the entire production process.
- The Chinese association claims the U.S. is using human rights issues to politically target China's textile industry.
- Sanctions could disrupt global cotton supply chains and production stability.
- A U.S. law has been in effect since 2021 banning products made with forced labor from Xinjiang.
Points of divergence
- The Chinese Cotton Association described the sanctions as a violation of international trade. — riamo
- The U.S. previously expanded the blacklist in January 2025, adding 37 companies. — kommersant
- International and human rights organizations have repeatedly reported on persecution of the Xinjiang population, which is predominantly Muslim. — kommersant
Coverage (2 sources)
- Chinese cotton producers rejected US accusations of slave labor — РИАМО
- China's cotton manufacturers rejected accusations of using forced labor — Коммерсантъ