Lululemon: Products in China safe

Lululemon Athletica Inc claimed its products currently sold in China do not contain per — and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), amid concerns following a US investigation into the potential presence of toxic chemicals in the leisure wear maker's apparel.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into the company, issuing a Civil Investigative Demand to Lululemon's US unit to examine whether it misled consumers about product safety, quality and potential health effects, according to a statement released on Monday.

In response to inquiries, Lululemon China said that all products currently sold in the country are free of PFAS and comply with applicable laws, regulations and industry standards.

Its global company spokesperson said "Lululemon does not use PFAS in its products," adding it phased out the substance in fiscal 2023, after limited use in durable water repellent products.

The investigation comes as consumer scrutiny intensifies over chemicals used in synthetic fabrics. PFAS, sometimes referred to as "forever chemicals", have been linked in some studies to endocrine disruption, infertility and certain cancers — raising broader concerns about their use in performance apparel.

The probe has also drawn attention from consumers. Wendy Chen, a Beijing-based customer, said she was "concerned and shocked".

"I own several pairs of their leggings and jackets, and just recently bought more because I trust the brand's wellness image," she said. "I hope the investigation brings clarity soon."

Last year, news that water-repellent jackets could pose potential fertility risks for women grabbed headlines.

Cheng Weixiong, a fashion analyst, said, "It is worth reflecting and worrying that such harmful substance-related incidents may still exist in the industry despite widespread warnings."

Cheng added that the probe could weigh on consumer sentiment, particularly as Lululemon Athletica derives about 16 percent of its global revenue from China, where female shoppers account for the majority of its customer base.

In an industry characterized by long and complex supply chains, oversight of potentially toxic chemicals should be continuously strengthened across all stages, from manufacturers and distributors to regulators and consumers, Cheng said.

China has included PFAS in its list of key controlled new pollutants, while several countries and regions have begun tightening regulations. France, for example, passed legislation last year, banning the manufacture, import, export and sale of PFAS-containing cosmetics, ski wax, textiles, footwear and certain waterproofing agents from Jan 1, 2026.