Swatch Apologizes for Racist Ad in China

Swiss watchmaker Swatch has apologized for an ad that was deemed racist towards Asians after it featured a model pulling the corners of their eyes. The ad sparked outrage on Chinese social media, with many calling for a boycott of Swatch products. The company has removed the ad and issued an apology, but some consumers remain unsatisfied.

Swiss watchmaker Swatch has apologized and removed an advertisement featuring an Asian male model making a 'slanted eye' gesture after it sparked accusations of racism and calls for a boycott on Chinese social media. The company acknowledged the concerns and deleted the promotional material worldwide, but many online users were not satisfied with the response and continued to call for a boycott of Swatch Group brands. The incident is the latest in a series of foreign brands facing accusations of racist advertising in China, including Dolce & Gabbana and Dior. Swatch Group, which includes brands like Blancpain, Longines, and Tissot, has struggled to maintain growth in China due to a slowing economy and shifting consumer preferences.

Swatch, a Swiss watchmaker, has apologized and withdrawn advertisements for its Essentials collection after they were criticized for featuring an Asian male model with a 'slanted eye' pose, which many deemed racist. The backlash was particularly strong in China. Swatch issued apologies in English and Chinese on social media platforms Weibo and Instagram, stating that they had removed all related materials worldwide. The controversy led to a 2.7% drop in Swatch's shares. This incident is the latest setback for the company, which has faced declining sales and a significant tariff on its exports to the US.