The Turkish government imposed a fine of 21 million won on Adidas for failing to properly disclose the use of pigskin, which is taboo in Islam, in its sneakers.
On the 16th (local time), according to local media, including the Daily Türkiye, the Advertising Board under the Turkish Ministry of Trade recently ordered Adidas to pay a fine of 550,059 lira (approximately 21 million won).
Adidas used pigskin in its sneaker product 'Samba' (Samba OG) but labeled it as 'natural leather' in the product description.
Samba OG is cited as one of Adidas' sneaker models that became famous after being worn by overseas models, including Kendall Jenner.
The Advertising Board stated to Adidas that 'products made with materials that contradict religious sentiments must be disclosed in advertisements.' Subsequently, Adidas revised the product description on its website.
Over 90% of Turkey's population are Muslims. In the Islamic cultural sphere, pigs are considered filthy and impure animals, which are neither consumed nor used for their leather.