Giant in Hot Water Over Forced Labor Allegations

"U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) has slapped a Withhold Release Order (WRO) on bikes, parts, and accessories made by Giant in Taiwan, citing allegations of forced labor. The WRO prevents those goods from entering the U.S. market until Giant can prove they're clean-no-exceptions. According to U.S Customs their investigation has revealed some notable red flags including: abuse of worker vulnerability, debt bondage, abusive living and working conditions, wage withholding, and excessive overtime."

"Giant responded by pointing to recent internal reforms where the company claims it now covers recruitment costs and upgraded worker housing. Giant also is preparing a petition to lift the WRO and have insisted that the order only targets Taiwan-made exports to the us - not product coming from China or Vietnam. The company isn't just a big brand name, but they're also a notable supplier to other brands like Trek and Scott."

U.S. Customs and Border Protection issued a Withhold Release Order blocking Taiwan-made bikes, parts, and accessories from entering the U.S. pending proof they are free of forced labor. The CPB investigation identified red flags including abuse of worker vulnerability, debt bondage, abusive living and working conditions, wage withholding, and excessive overtime. Giant says it has implemented reforms, now covers recruitment costs, upgraded worker housing, and is preparing a petition to lift the WRO while noting the order targets Taiwan-made exports only. Giant supplies other brands, and confirmed findings could lead to seizure, forfeiture, and wider supply-chain and reputational impacts, raising concerns about accountability, transparency, and worker well-being.

Read at BikeMag