Hey there, global news explorers! 🌍 China has officially refuted recent claims about the use of so-called \"forced labor\" in Xinjiang's tomato industry. Spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized that these allegations are baseless and that Xinjiang's tomatoes are world-renowned for their quality.
In a media briefing on Thursday, Lin responded to a report by the BBC, which suggested that some ketchup sold in UK supermarkets may contain tomatoes from Xinjiang, alleged to be produced through forced labor. \"There is no such thing as forced labor in Xinjiang,\" Lin stated firmly. \"The Chinese government has always opposed and cracked down on forced labor.\"
Lin highlighted that the tomato and cotton industries in Xinjiang have embraced mechanization, with harvesting rates exceeding 90% and 85% respectively. \"From planting to harvesting, machines do the heavy lifting! 🤖 How could there be forced labor?\" he questioned.
So next time you dip your fries in ketchup, remember the journey of those tomatoes! 🍟🍅 Let's stay informed and question the narratives we hear. #StayCurious
Reference(s):
China refutes smears against Xinjiang on so-called "forced labor"
cgtn.com
