Fellow Taiwan-based bike brand Merida has taken action on its migrant worker policies, the move following Giant entering talks with US Customs after the Trump administration blocked imports of its bikes over forced labour allegations.

Merida released a statement vowing to “continue to align ourselves with internationally recognised labour standards” and implement a zero-fee policy for migrant workers, a policy which has now come into effect.

2025 Merida Reacto 9000 profile.jpg
2025 Merida Reacto 9000 profile (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

Last week, Taiwan’s biggest bike manufacturer, Giant, told us it was “committed to openness and transparency” and is in contact with US Customs over the allegations of a report which saw its bicycle imports to the US blocked. Giant confirmed it is monitoring its “Zero Recruitment Fee Policy and upgraded employee housing conditions” following allegations, which included abuse of vulnerability, debt bondage and withholding of wages.

> Trump administration blocks imports of Giant bikes over forced labour allegations

Following the developments with Giant, Merida — which is Taiwan’s second largest bike manufacturer — confirmed that from October 1 its migrant workers would have a zero-fee policy and “new workers will not have to pay recruitment agency fees for jobs”.

“We strictly comply with Taiwan’s labour laws,” the brand said. “However, we recognise the gap between local labour laws and international expectations, and we vow to continue to align ourselves with internationally recognised labour standards.

“Effective October 1, 2025, we are implementing a zero-fee policy for migrant workers. New workers will not have to pay recruitment agency fees for jobs. No migrant workers — new recruits or current employees — will have to pay monthly service fees to brokers. All these costs will be covered by Merida. 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.

2025 Merida Speeder 300 - rear.jpg
2025 Merida Speeder 300 - rear (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

“We believe the actions above will now ensure our complete alignment with international standards and expectations. Our priority remains the well-being of our employees. We are dedicated to continuous improvement and to ensuring that our workplace upholds the highest standards of fairness, safety, and dignity.”

Merida’s statement follows the developments with Giant over the past fortnight, the Trump administration blocking imports of Giant’s bikes from Taiwan after an investigation alleged evidence of forced labour.

US Customs and Border Protection issued a withhold release order against Giant Manufacturing Co. and said it would begin detaining bicycles, bicycle parts and accessories manufactured in Taiwan.

 Last week, Giant told us it was in talks with US Customs and formal letters were sent to Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Labour, and Ministry of Economic Affairs, reporting progress and requesting assistance.

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2025 Giant Defy Advanced SL 1 - riding 5 (Image Credit: Farrelly Atkinson)

“Giant profited by imposing such abuse, resulting in goods produced below market value and undercutting American businesses by millions of dollars in unjustly earned profits,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott in a national media release communicating the blocking of imports.

However, the bike brand said it was keen to continue “ensuring that protections are aligned with international standards and institutionalised”.

“Upholding our principles of openness, transparency, and accountability, we will proactively report progress to regulators, partners, and the public, and ensure that all related issues are properly addressed in accordance with international standards,” a spokesperson said.