Dettol has apologised and withdrawn an advertisement in China after it triggered widespread criticism online over its portrayal of women and relationships.
The advertisement, released on Chinese social media, featured a man expressing a desire to marry a woman who was “clean” and had not been involved with other men. While the campaign was reportedly intended to challenge toxic attitudes among some men, many viewers argued that it reinforced sexist stereotypes and objectified women.
The advert quickly sparked backlash across Chinese social media platforms, with users accusing the brand of promoting outdated views about women and relationships. Some consumers called for a boycott of Dettol products.
Following the criticism, Dettol issued an apology, saying the content did not reflect the company’s values and had caused offence. The company removed the advertisement and said it would review its marketing processes to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The controversy has attracted significant attention in China, where discussions about gender equality and advertising standards have become increasingly prominent in recent years.
Dettol is owned by Reckitt, a multinational consumer health and hygiene company. (Newswire)