THE WHAT? Superdrug has removed skincare brand Ahava from its online marketplace after evidence emerged suggesting cosmetic ingredients may have been processed at an Israeli settlement in the occupied West Bank, prompting concerns over settlement-linked trade.
THE DETAILS The UK health and beauty retailer removed Ahava products after being alerted to photographs and video obtained by the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), which appeared to show chemicals and raw materials stored at a site in the Israeli settlement of Mitzpe Shalem. The images included containers marked with 2025 and 2026 production or receipt dates, alongside mounds of material believed to be Dead Sea mud used in Ahava products. Ahava denies operating a production facility in the settlement and says all manufacturing activities were consolidated within internationally recognised Israeli territory by 2022. Superdrug said the products were sold through a third-party marketplace seller and has since blocked the brand from being listed by any seller on its platform. The development comes as UK lawmakers continue to debate restrictions on trade involving Israeli settlements, which the UK government considers illegal under international law.
THE WHY? The case highlights growing scrutiny of supply chains and sourcing practices linked to Israeli settlements in the West Bank, as retailers face increasing pressure from governments, human rights groups and consumers to ensure products are not connected to disputed territories or activities considered illegal under international law.
Source: Sky News
