H&M stores have been removed from Apple Maps for human rights violations in China. Burberry’s signature plaid design was removed from a video game in China. According to Reuters, Zhou Dongyu, an ambassador for the brand, terminated her contract after the luxury brand failed to state its stance on cotton sourced from Xinjiang.
The New York Post reports that it’s not clear who removed H&M from Apple Maps, but the Chinese government has a long history of censoring content.
Burberry, a member of the Better Cotton Initiative, suspended its approval of cotton sourced from Xinjiang last year.
H&M is working with more than 350 manufacturers in China.
“[This] does not represent any political position…H&M Group always respects Chinese consumers. We are committed to long-term investment and development in China,” the company said in a statement.
Major brands have started protesting against cotton products sourced in Xinjiang after allegations that the region was forcing Muslim Uyghur people to work in cotton fields.
China’s Communist Youth League disagrees with the boycott.
“Spreading rumors to boycott Xinjiang cotton while trying to make a profit in China? Wishful thinking!” the organization posted on social media.
