Swatch has apologized and removed ads featuring an Asian male model with slanted eyes after they sparked widespread criticism in China. The images were part of the Swatch Essentials collection and were condemned for resembling racist taunts about Asian eyes.
In a statement posted on Weibo and Instagram, Swatch acknowledged “recent concerns” and expressed regret for any distress caused. The apology comes as Swatch Group reports 27% of its sales come from China, where revenue slumped 14.6% last year due to weak demand for consumer goods.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/18/china/china-swatch-advert-apology-intl-hnk