Xizang Officials Ousted Over Arc’teryx Fireworks Probe
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Several officials in Gyantse county in the Xizang autonomous region have been dismissed and placed under investigation following a fireworks show sponsored by outdoor brand Arc’teryx that drew public backlash for its environmental impact.
The event, a collaboration with world-renowned pyrotechnics artist Cai Guoqiang, took place on Sept. 19 along snowcapped Himalayan ridgelines in Xizang’s Shigatse region. After widespread criticism over potential ecological damage, Arc’teryx and Cai issued apologies on Sept. 21. The Shigatse city government then launched a multi-level investigation.
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- Several Gyantse county officials were dismissed and investigated after a 1,050-firework display by Arc’teryx and Cai Guoqiang in Xizang, which drew criticism for ecological impact.
- Immediate damage included about 1.02 hectares of disturbed soil, incomplete cleanup of debris, and brief wildlife disturbance; long-term risks require monitoring.
- Sponsors face compensation and restoration costs, while local leaders were removed for procedural breaches in approving the event.
- Arc’teryx
- Arc'teryx (始祖鸟) is an outdoor brand that sponsored a fireworks show in Xizang, China. This event, a collaboration with artist Cai Guoqiang, drew public backlash due to environmental concerns. Arc'teryx issued an apology and is liable for ecological damage compensation and restoration costs.
- Cai's art studio
- Cai's art studio, along with Arc'teryx, is being held responsible for ecological damage compensation and restoration expenses after a controversial fireworks show in Xizang. This decision follows an investigation by Shigatse authorities into the environmental impact of the event.
- Sept. 19, 2025：
- Fireworks show by Arc’teryx and Cai Guoqiang took place on Himalayan ridgelines in Xizang’s Shigatse region.
- Sept. 21, 2025：
- Arc’teryx and Cai issued public apologies after widespread criticism over the environmental impact of the fireworks show.
- 2025：
- Shigatse city government launched a multi-level investigation in response to the fireworks event.
- 2025：
- Local officials filed a case against the illegal fireworks activity, citing ecological protection laws.
- 2025：
- Arc’teryx and Cai’s art studio are designated to be held liable for ecological compensation and restoration costs, pending assessment.
- 2025：
- Gyantse county party chief Chen Hao and vice county chief Li Jiping, along with other officials, were dismissed and placed under investigation for improperly approving the event. County head Duojipula and others are also under investigation.
- Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025：
- Shigatse authorities publicly released findings regarding the ecological impact of the fireworks show.
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