BEIJING — Intel Corp. has apologized for asking suppliers not to sourcing goods from the western Chinese region of Xinjiang, after it became the latest foreign brand to face the fury of state media regarding the region, where the ruling Communist Party is accused of widespread abuses.
The reference to Xinjiang was sent to suppliers in a letter that was intended to comply with U.S. regulations, according to a statement on its social media account. Washington has been barred from importing goods from Xinjiang over complaints of mass detentions of mostly Muslim minorities, forced abortions and other abuses in the region.
State media and comments on Chinese websites criticized Intel for what Global Times, a newspaper published by the ruling party, called it an arrogant and vicious move. Some people called for a boycott of Intel products.
An Intel statement said that the letter caused concerns among our cherished Chinese partners, which we deeply regret. It said the mention of Xinjiang referred to the need to comply with regulations and not a company position.
Other companies, including retailer H&M and shoe brand Nike, have been targeted for criticism and boycotts, because they expressed concern about Xinjiang or said they would stop using materials produced there.
Pop singer Karry Wang, also known as Wang Junkai, announced Wednesday he was pulling out of a deal to be an ambassador for Intel's Core line of processor chips. Wang joined a series of Chinese singers, actors, and other celebrities who have broken ties with foreign brands over Xinjiang, giving up millions of dollars in income to avoid retaliation by the ruling party.