Merida is implementing various measures to improve its labour practices, following the blockade on Giant Bicycles by the US due to allegations of forced labour.

In a statement released today, Merida says it complies with Taiwan’s labour laws, but it has emphasised its commitment to “internationally recognised labour standards”.

Merida says it will implement a zero-fee recruitment policy for migrant workers effective from 1 October. In Taiwan, labour laws allow brokers to charge fees to migrant workers, but this can lead to debt bondage, which is an indicator of forced labour. Now, Merida will not allow brokers to charge fees to new migrant workers.

Furthermore, Merida says no migrant workers will have to pay monthly service fees to brokers…

“In addition, we are in the process of creating a reimbursement plan to compensate migrant workers for their earlier recruitment costs. Our goal is to complete the reimbursement by October 25, 2025,” Merida says.

“We will work with our recruitment partners to make sure these standards are upheld and will continue to monitor them to ensure this is the case. Employee welfare is further supported through routine check-ups…

Giant said it is “firmly committed to upholding human rights and labour protections. Since January 2025, we have fully implemented a Zero Recruitment Fee Policy…