Taiwan's bike industry is 'speeding up' on addressing forced labour – but hasn't reached the finish line

James Huang, Josh Weinberg

Eight months after the US banned imports of Giant's Taiwan-made products over forced-labour concerns, much of Taiwan's bicycle industry has implemented reforms. An estimated US$10 million has been reimbursed to migrant workers, and at least ten manufacturers are adopting no-fee recruitment policies – but progress is still slow, especially in putting policies into practice, according to a new report.

The report, Speeding Up – Addressing forced labour risks in Taiwan's bicycle industry, was written by investigative journalist Peter Bengtsen, whose 2024 and 2025 investigations helped bring the issue to light. A follow-up to his 2025 Speed Up! report, it gives an account of the developments since US Customs and Border Protection issued its Withhold Release Order against Giant in September 2025, with company claims verified through worker contacts.

US Customs detaining Giant Bicycles shipments over forced-labor allegationsIn an extraordinary move, American customs officials will interdict the company’s US-bound shipments if they originate in Taiwan.Escape CollectiveJoe Lindsey

This post is for subscribers only

Become a member to get access to all content

Subscribe now