Giant Group, the world’s largest bicycle manufacturer, has come under scrutiny after U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a Withhold Release Order (WRO) on September 24, 2025, blocking the import of Giant bicycles, parts, and components from its Taiwan factory into the United States.
The move follows allegations of forced labor practices involving migrant workers—accusations that Giant firmly denies. While the exact scope of the inquiry remains unclear, the action marks a rare case of a Withhold Release Order applied to Taiwan’s manufacturing sector.
Industry observers note that the decision could disrupt supply chains in the short term. Giant is one of the largest suppliers to both mass-market retailers and independent bike shops in the U.S., making the order particularly sensitive. Reports indicate that several shipments are already being delayed at ports, creating uncertainty for distributors and dealers ahead of the critical autumn and holiday sales period.
Media reports from Taiwan emphasize that government officials there have questioned the investigation process, pointing out that no U.S. investigators were dispatched to the island. Local authorities and labor experts have underlined improvements in worker recruitment and housing conditions at Giant’s facilities in recent years.
At the same time, analysts suggest that the case highlights growing international scrutiny on labor practices across global supply chains. The bicycle industry, which has historically faced fewer investigations than sectors like textiles or electronics, may now find itself under closer examination.
Giant has stressed that the WRO applies only to products manufactured in Taiwan and exported to the United States, with other global markets unaffected. Still, the U.S. remains one of the company’s largest sales regions, and even temporary disruptions could shift competitive dynamics. Some industry experts believe that rivals may benefit in the short term, particularly in high-volume categories such as entry-level and mid-range models. Giant’s stock price fell by 10% on September 25 and has not recovered since then.
Looking ahead, the company has announced plans to engage with U.S. authorities in order to lift the order, while continuing to reassure business partners and consumers about its compliance measures. The outcome of this process is expected to be closely watched across the industry, as it may set a precedent for how labor rights compliance is enforced in the global bicycle market.
The full statement from Giant Group:
1. Company Position
Giant Group is firmly committed to upholding human rights and labor protections, and has taken the following concrete actions: Since January 2025, we have fully implemented a Zero Recruitment Fee Policy, under which all recruitment, agency, and government-related fees for newly hired migrant workers are fully covered by the company. By the end of 2024, we completed upgrades to employee housing, providing a safer and more comfortable living environment.
2. Active Response
Giant Group has established internal supervision mechanisms and third-party audits, and continues to conduct due diligence to ensure compliance with international standards. We will contact CBP to file a petition to seek the revocation of the WRO and explain that the Company has already adopted appropriate measures.
3. Impact
The WRO applies only to products manufactured in Taiwan and exported to the U.S. Supply and sales in other markets remain unaffected. In the short term, some shipments to the U.S. may experience delays or inspections. However, the company has activated contingency measures and is planning to work closely with CBP and are working closely with business partners to minimize the impact.
4. Continuing Transparency and Communication
Giant Group remains dedicated to protecting labor rights through concrete actions and ensuring a transparent, fair, and sustainable development. The Group will continually provide timely updates and maintain open communication with global stakeholders to foster a responsible and resilient industry environment.
Topics in this article
More news and updates from The Show Daily team
- Messingschlager and Pinion: Teaming up on Turnkey platform
- Arkansas Global Cycling Accelerator Welcomes Applications for the 2026 Cohort
- Retyre secures €7 million investment to scale sustainable tyre manufacturing
- Bicycle Cluster: Powering the Bike Industry with Data, and Now AI
- Dahon: Teledon Folding Bike Offers Road Bike Speed and Flexibility