Shimano faces accusations of selling components made by 'modern slaves' employed Malaysian supplier

Shimano has allegedly sold components produced by 'modern slaves' following a fluctuation in operations around the Covid pandemic, according to an investigation by The Telegraph.

The Japanese company sources components from a Malaysian supplier - Kwang Li Industry - that has been accused of exploiting migrant workers from Nepal. Workers at the factory say that they have been subject to physical abuse and threats, unlawful salary deductions and recruitment fees, and unpaid suspension.

Read also

"It's one of the reasons why I keep racing" Mathieu van der Poel targeting Eric De Vlaeminck's record of seven Cyclocross World Championship victories

A spokesperson for Shimano told The Telegraph: "This is a serious accusation, and it stands against what we believe in at Shimano. We are currently investigating the matter with the relevant parties and will use appropriate action to ensure the situation is resolved."

A spokesperson for Kwang Li Industry told the paper: "We vehemently deny all the false allegations made against us... this includes but not limited to the allegations of physical abuse and threats, illegal salary deductions and recruitment fees, and unpaid suspensions."

Read also

"The relationship with him is different from that with Wout van Aert" - Mathieu van der Poel on his friendship with Remco Evenepoel

"We have consciously decided not to leave the country" - No cross-border trips for Tour de France in 2025 reveals Christian Prudhomme