Japan retailer Muji downplays concerns over Xinjiang cotton

Company stresses 'third-party' audits to address forced labor allegations

A Muji store in Beijing: The Japanese retailer has sought to sidestep a consumer backlash in China against several Western retailers that have voiced concern about human rights in Xinjiang. © Reuters

RURIKA IMAHASHI, Nikkei staff writer

April 14, 2021 18:15 JST

TOKYO -- Muji brand owner Ryohin Keikaku on Wednesday detailed its steps to address concerns over its use of cotton produced in Xinjiang, as it looks to avoid being caught up in allegations over the use of forced labor in the western Chinese region.

The Japanese retailer acknowledged receiving many inquiries about products from Xinjiang, where Beijing is accused of subjecting Uyghurs to forced labor.