WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Kash Patel, President Donald Trump’s nominee for FBI director, has reported holdings valued between $1 million and $5 million in Elite Depot Ltd., a Cayman Islands-based holding company linked to Chinese fast-fashion retailer Shein. Shein has faced bipartisan scrutiny over allegations of utilizing forced Uyghur labor in its supply chain.
Patel’s financial disclosure indicates that his shares in Elite Depot Ltd. began vesting on February 1, shortly after his Senate confirmation hearing, and will continue through November. Despite concerns, Patel has stated he will not divest from these holdings.
Shein has been under investigation for its labor practices, particularly concerning the alleged use of forced labor involving Uyghur and other ethnic minorities in China. In 2023, a coalition of 16 state attorneys general urged the Securities and Exchange Commission to verify that Shein does not utilize forced labor independently.
Critics argue that Patel’s financial interests could conflict with the FBI’s mission, especially given Shein’s controversial labor practices. Ethics experts and lawmakers have expressed concerns about potential conflicts of interest, emphasizing the importance of impartiality in the nation’s top law enforcement position.
