KMB · News · 20260804N

China Diaper Sales Disruption

KIMBERLY CLARK CORP · 2026-08-04 · Importance 40 · Surprise 42

False social-media claims that Huggies diapers contain formamide disrupted Kimberly-Clark’s diaper sales in China, despite independent testing cited by the company rejecting the allegations. The disruption reduced organic sales growth by approximately 50 basis points and is expected to weigh on future sales and operating profit in the International Personal Care segment. The company described the impact as a one-time external event, with China weakness affecting second-quarter performance and the full-year outlook.

Key facts

• Kimberly-Clark said false social media claims in China negatively impacted its organic sales by approximately 50 basis points. source
• Kimberly-Clark said the "one-time external impact" in China is expected to reduce organic growth and operating profit for its International Personal Care segment. source
• The company refutes claims that its diapers contain formamide, citing independent testing. source