John Moolenaar, chairman of the House Select Committee on China, urged Starbucks to close two newly opened stores in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. He cited allegations of human rights abuses against the region’s Uyghur population.
The outlets are located at Urumqi’s Grand Bazaar and international airport. Human rights groups have also condemned the openings, highlighting the challenges American companies face in operating in Xinjiang.
Despite the pressure, Starbucks reaffirmed its commitment to investing in the region through its joint venture.