China has launched an investigation into PVH Corp., the American fashion giant behind brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein, over claims it discriminated against cotton products from the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The move, announced by China’s Ministry of Commerce, cites violations of market principles and 'jeopardized' national interests.
The ministry alleges PVH Corp. boycotted Xinjiang cotton — a key global supply — without factual basis and cut ties with Chinese partners. 🔍 'Such practices undermine legitimate rights and harm China’s sovereignty,' a spokesperson stated. The company now has 30 days to provide evidence refuting the claims under China’s 'unreliable entity list' framework, introduced in 2020 to regulate foreign businesses.
While Beijing emphasizes its commitment to 'high-standard opening up,' this probe signals stricter oversight of firms accused of politicizing trade. Gen-Z might recognize PVH’s brands from collabs with global influencers, but this clash highlights rising tensions between market access and geopolitical sensitivities. 💼🌐
China’s unreliable entity list, rarely used since 2023, targets entities deemed disruptive to its market rules. The ministry reassured law-abiding foreign firms they 'have no reason to be concerned,' urging cooperation to resolve disputes.
Reference(s):
China opens probe into U.S. firm suspected of market discrimination
cgtn.com