Giant Group has provided an update regarding the Withhold Release Order (WRO) issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), summarizing the implementation results of its Zero Recruitment Fee policy, the progress of its Corrective Action Plan (CAP) and ongoing enhancements to worker grievance mechanisms that are part of the Group’s long-term Migrant Worker Rights Enhancement Program.
The Group this week announced the latest moves made under this program, which include the following:
Zero-Fee Policy Fully Implemented
Following the completion of the first phase of refunds in mid-October, the company finalized the second phase of refunds for all remaining migrant workers on December 1.
The refund calculations and procedures were implemented in accordance with recommendations from a third-party independent auditor, following international standards and thorough fact-finding investigations and assessments. All refund amounts have now been fully transferred to the workers’ accounts. This development signifies the full implementation of the Zero Recruitment Fee responsible recruitment policy and marks an important milestone in the company’s human rights and labor governance efforts and responsible recruitment practices.
Corrective Action Plan Progressing on Schedule
Giant Group has proactively implemented a detailed Corrective Action Plan (CAP) in accordance with recommendations from the third-party independent audit organization. The CAP includes corporate policy updates and enhanced recruitment management systems, coupled with extensive online and on-site training programs designed to promote labor rights awareness and strengthen workers’ rights consciousness. It is the company’s goal to pursue the swift lifting of the WRO and to establish an elevated, positive example for enhancing labor and human rights governance through collaboration with CBP.
Enhanced Grievance Mechanisms
Giant Group emphasized that effective grievance mechanisms constitute a core component of international human rights governance. The company has strengthened its internal GTMCare grievance procedures and promoted the 1955 migrant worker hotline. Giant expressed its intention to continue to work jointly with government authorities to further strengthen the effectiveness and accessibility of the 1955 mechanism, ensuring migrant workers can voice their concerns and obtain prompt support through more accessible and safer channels.
Continued Compliance Efforts and Commitment to Transparency
Giant Group will continue advancing all CAP-related improvement measures, strengthen grievance mechanisms, and implement related measures to actively safeguard and enhance migrant worker rights. Should CBP or relevant authorities request additional actions, the company will fully comply.
Giant Group said it will provide regular updates on its official platforms to ensure transparency and remains committed to further strengthening systems that protect migrant worker rights.
CBP’s History of Efforts to Force Compliance
The latest moves follow CBP’s action on September 24, 2025, to issue a Withhold Release Order on products manufactured at Giant Group’s Taiwan-based factory, suspending the import of Giant-branded bikes, bike parts, and components into the United States. The action by the CBP came on the heels of accusations of forced labor at this facility and does not impact the production of Giant-branded bikes, bike parts, and components that it manufactures in other countries.
The Group announced in mid-October that it had implemented a “Zero Recruitment Fee Policy” for all newly recruited foreign migrant workers, effective January 1, 2025, under which the company continues to bear all recruitment fees, service charges, and related government costs. This new policy comes as Giant Group commissioned a “renowned international third-party adviser” to identify, assess, and develop a comprehensive compensation plan to reimburse current migrant workers hired before January 1, 2025, for their previous recruitment expenses.
Giant Group initiated the first phase of fee reimbursement payment in October to demonstrate its commitment. Giant said it made the provision in the book with sufficient funding ability to support the payment, so Giant can ensure all migrant workers receive what they are eligible to receive.
Giant Group has also completed the relocation of all migrant worker dormitories, with a total of 400 more workers moving into two newly built facilities located in Yuanli, Miaoli, and Waipu, Taichung. The previous Rinan dormitory was constrained by its age and limited space. The new dormitories were designed and upgraded in line with international labor and human rights standards, providing a safe, healthy, and respectful living environment that meets fire protection, construction, and public safety requirements. Each dormitory features eight-person rooms, private bathrooms, dining and leisure areas, basic fitness equipment, fire protection systems, and dedicated management personnel. These dormitories are said to “significantly enhance” overall living quality and demonstrate the company’s determination to continuously improve living and working conditions.
Image courtesy Giant Group
