**Corporate Watchdog Probes Ralph Lauren on Alleged Use of Forced Labor in China**.
**New York, NY – December 12, 2023** – The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA), a corporate watchdog organization, has launched an investigation into Ralph Lauren Corporation’s alleged use of forced labor in its supply chain in China..
The CCPA’s investigation stems from a report published by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) in March 2023, which alleged that Ralph Lauren was among over 80 international brands linked to factories in China’s Xinjiang region, where Uyghur Muslims are subjected to forced labor and other human rights abuses..
According to the ASPI report, Ralph Lauren’s suppliers in Xinjiang were using Uyghur workers transferred from detention camps and subjected to forced labor conditions, including excessive overtime, restricted movement, and intimidation..
The CCPA is now seeking to determine the extent of Ralph Lauren’s involvement in these alleged abuses and whether the company has taken adequate steps to ensure that its supply chain is free from forced labor..
The investigation will involve examining Ralph Lauren’s supplier contracts, factory auditing records, and other relevant documents. The CCPA will also interview factory workers, trade union representatives, and other stakeholders in China..
The CCPA’s investigation comes amid growing international pressure on companies to address the issue of forced labor in their supply chains. In recent months, several major brands, including Nike, Adidas, and H&M, have faced scrutiny for their alleged involvement in forced labor in Xinjiang..
The CCPA’s investigation is expected to take several months to complete. The organization has stated that it will release its findings and recommendations in a public report upon completion of the investigation..
**Ralph Lauren’s Response**.
Ralph Lauren has denied the allegations of forced labor in its supply chain. The company has stated that it has a zero-tolerance policy for forced labor and that it conducts regular audits of its suppliers to ensure compliance with its ethical sourcing standards..
Ralph Lauren has also stated that it is committed to working with its suppliers to address any issues related to forced labor and that it is taking steps to strengthen its supplier monitoring and auditing processes..
The CCPA’s investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen whether Ralph Lauren will be found to have violated any labor laws or ethical standards. However, the investigation highlights the growing importance of supply chain transparency and the need for companies to take proactive steps to address the issue of forced labor in their global operations..
