Mercedes swept up in China internet furore over model’s ‘slanted eyes’

“Gucci was found to feature an Asian-looking model with small eyes, ‘unconventional’ makeup, an exaggerated nose ring and a leather whip in her hand,” it said.

Loading

The article pointed out that while the model could be seen in a photo on Gucci’s official Twitter account, only her hand holding the item could be seen on the company’s Weibo. Twitter is among the foreign social media services that are blocked by the ruling Communist Party’s censors.

Representatives for Kering, owner of the Gucci brand, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

In 2018, Mercedes-Benz apologised for quoting the Dalai Lama on Instagram, a move that the Global Times also criticised. The automaker had attached a quote from the Tibetan spiritual leader to a post showcasing a sleek luxury model — “Look at situations from all angles, and you will become more open.”

Daimler said last week it would slash its stake in the Denza electric-car joint venture with China’s BYD Auto Industry Co following years of weak sales. BYD will own 90 per cent of the business and Daimler 10 per cent after an equity transfer the companies plan to complete in mid-2022, the Mercedes-Benz maker said.

The joint venture was started in March 2012. Its weak profitability has been a concern at Daimler for years, even as sales for its Mercedes luxury vehicles continued to surge in China.

Bloomberg

The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning.