NEW YORK – Independent testing suggests Xinjiang cotton is rife in global fashion supply chains, despite efforts by regulators to ban its use. Nearly a fifth (19 per cent) of 822 samples tested contained evidence of Xinjiang cotton according to a report by Applied DNA sciences and Stratum Reservoir

156 out of 822 samples tested positive for Xinjiang cotton from February 2023 to March 2024.

“Xinjiang cotton is present in diverse and, perhaps more importantly, global supply chains, including apparel, footwear, and consumer products,” says the report. “This includes samples such as yarn, fabric, finished garments, and even cotton swabs.”

The report indicates that 57 per cent of samples testing positive for Xinjiang cotton have a claimed origin of the United States. Says the report: “This potentially misleading claim of origin is particularly noteworthy considering the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). It is concerning also for products claiming US origin and/or made in the US related to the Rules of Origin to determine if the products are eligible for duty free or reduced duties under the FTA (Free Trade Agreement) rules.”