Starbucks has come under fire from US lawmakers following the opening of two new stores in the Xinjiang region of China. Critics argue that the company’s decision to expand in this specific area is ethically questionable due to ongoing international allegations regarding Beijing’s treatment of Muslim minorities in the region. Lawmakers have explicitly characterized the move as a “morally bankrupt decision,” urging the coffee chain to withdraw its operations.

Starbucks has previously adjusted its business model in China, selling a controlling stake in its retail operations to the Hong Kong-based investment firm Boyu Capital last year. Despite the political backlash, reports indicate that the new locations have seen significant consumer interest. Videos circulating on Chinese social media platforms show long queues at the Urumqi flagship store, with local influencers promoting the brand’s offerings. While the political pressure from US officials is mounting, the company has not publicly announced any plans to alter its expansion strategy in the region. The situation highlights the ongoing tension between multinational corporations seeking to maintain market share in China and the political pressure to align business operations with Western human rights concerns.