Import ban in the USA: Giant in negotiations with US customs authorities
TOUR
· 04.11.2025
Discussions with Giant and US customs ongoing
The import of Giant products manufactured in Taiwan into the USA is still prohibited. Now, for the first time, there have been talks between representatives of the customs authorities and Giant. A delegation from the Taiwanese bicycle manufacturer met with representatives of the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Washington D.C. for an official face-to-face meeting at the end of October 2025. According to a statement from Giant, the talks took place in a positive and constructive atmosphere.
According to the announcement, the US customs authority CBP recognised Giant's actions following the issuance of the Withhold Release Order (WRO). The agency also acknowledged the inclusion of labour rights in Giant's sustainability governance goals and their active implementation. During the meeting, CBP emphasised that this case is not intended to punish Giant, but rather to promote the improvement of the labour and human rights situation through cooperation with companies. However, it is still not clear when and if the import ban will be lifted.
Giant undergoes international audit
An international auditor has been conducting audits at Giant's Taiwanese production facilities since mid-October 2025. The audits commissioned by Giant include employee interviews, document reviews and on-site assessments of factories and dormitories, including comprehensive reviews of working and living conditions. The US CBP stated that the third-party assessment report will be an important part of the relevant CBP proceedings.
Giant Group has declared to follow international standards as a basis for internal management and improvement. The company is committed to implementing a fair, safe and respectful working environment and to continuously updating external progress to ensure information transparency and social trust. During the meeting, CBP recognised Giant's willingness to actively collaborate as a positive example of improving labour and human rights governance.
Background to the withhold release order for Giant
In September 2025, the US customs authority issued a withhold release order against Giant products manufactured in Taiwan. This step was justified on the basis of information suggesting the use of forced labour. According to reports, workers from Thailand, Vietnam and other countries often take out a loan to be placed with companies in Taiwan by labour brokers for a fee. The labour brokers later keep a large part of the wages paid, which can create a form of debt bondage. The WRO only applies to bicycles, bicycle parts and accessories manufactured in Taiwan by Giant and exported to the US. Other markets, including Europe and Asia, are not affected.
In addition to Taiwan, Giant Group also operates production facilities in China, the Netherlands, Hungary and Vietnam. The Vietnamese production facility already supplies the US market and will play a key role in meeting demand.
Reactions from Taiwan
The Taiwanese bicycle industry has responded to the import ban with a new industry initiative. The Taiwan Bicycle Association (TBA) announced an initiative that calls on all members of the bicycle supply chain to actively implement due diligence obligations. The focus is on human rights and the prevention of forced labour. Leading brands such as Giant and Merida Industry Co. have launched due diligence programmes.
The TBA works with international auditing firms to carry out professional due diligence audits for voluntary suppliers. A comprehensive self-assessment checklist is designed to assist suppliers with internal audits. The checklist aims to ensure compliance with Taiwanese labour regulations and eliminate basic risks such as forced labour. Participating companies will receive official verification and supporting documentation upon completion of the process.
Improvement measures
Giant Group has already taken several concrete steps. Since 1 January 2025, a Zero Recruitment Fee Policy has been in place for all new employees, with the company covering all agency, service and associated fees. On 15 October 2025, this initiative was extended to all current migrant workers, with the first phase of reimbursements already completed.
All migrant workers were relocated on 15 October 2025 to newly designed and improved dormitories that meet international labour and human rights standards. The new accommodation offers safer living conditions and specialised care. The working environment is ISO 45001 and TOSHMS certified, with regular health checks, immunisations and safety training as well as various welfare activities.
