Tearfund is raising concerns about how many New Zealanders are shopping on ultra-fast fashion websites - and the hidden costs that come with lower prices.

New reports show one in four adults have recently shopped on Temu and around 14 percent have shopped on Shein.

The 2024 Ethical Fashion Report gives Shein a score of 20 out of 100 - and Temu a 0.

Tearfund's Claire Gray says many Kiwis are in a tough financial spot and will look for lower prices, but it's likely workplace exploitation runs rampant within these companies.

"Our cost of living is rising and we're faced with situations where we need to buy items, clothes or other things from places that we know may not be treating workers well in their supply chains. It's a really tough position to be in."

Temu has released a statement responding to, and refuting the allegations of workplace exploitation.

"Temu is committed to upholding ethical, humane, and lawful business practices, as outlined in our Third-Party Code of Conduct. Our business partners and third-party merchants must comply with strict standards regarding labor, safety, and environmental protection. We reserve the right to end relationships with those who do not meet these requirements.

"We remain focused on building a safe, fair, and trustworthy platform for consumers and merchants.”

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