Factory conditions at Shimano supplier ‘akin to modern slavery’, investigation claims

Shimano CUES drivetrain ecosystem
Shimano CUES drivetrain ecosystem (Image credit: Shimano)

An investigation by The Telegraph has resulted in allegations of modern slavery made against Kwang Li Industry, a Malaysian supplier to Shimano, the world’s largest manufacturer of bicycle componentry. 

The investigation included interviews with current and former factory workers, salary and contract analysis, and correspondence with the Nepali Embassy in Malaysia. 

Will Jones
Senior Tech Writer

Will joined the Cyclingnews team as a reviews writer in 2022, having previously written for Cyclist, BikeRadar and Advntr. He’s tried his hand at most cycling disciplines, from the standard mix of road, gravel, and mountain bike, to the more unusual like bike polo and tracklocross. He’s made his own bike frames, covered tech news from the biggest races on the planet, and published countless premium galleries thanks to his excellent photographic eye. Also, given he doesn’t ever ride indoors he’s become a real expert on foul-weather riding gear. His collection of bikes is a real smorgasbord, with everything from vintage-style steel tourers through to superlight flat bar hill climb machines.