BASF Divests Xinjiang Ventures Amid Uyghur Rights Concerns

German chemical giant BASF has finalized the sale of its shares in two Xinjiang-based joint ventures to Verde Chemical Singapore, following allegations that its local partner was involved in human rights abuses against the Uyghur minority. While BASF stated its internal audits did not find evidence of violations within the joint ventures, external reports and U.S. sanctions have linked its partner, Zhongtai Group, to forced labor practices. Uyghur activists have welcomed BASF’s withdrawal, calling it a positive step toward corporate accountability and urging other companies to follow suit. The sale comes amid increased scrutiny and legal restrictions in the U.S. on imports from Xinjiang due to concerns over forced labor and alleged genocide targeting Uyghur Muslims. BASF did not disclose financial details of the transaction, which was completed in April 2025 after regulatory approvals. The move follows similar actions by other multinational companies, such as Volkswagen, to exit the Xinjiang region.