A recent scandal surrounding sanitary pads in China has ignited a fierce debate on gender equality as women discovered that leading brands were selling pads shorter than advertised. This revelation triggered a wave of discontent on social media platforms like Weibo, where the issue garnered nearly 200 million views within a week.

Women took to measuring their purchased sanitary pads and sharing their findings online, highlighting the discrepancy between the actual length of the pads and what was stated on the packaging. The outrage over this disparity has resonated deeply, with many women expressing discomfort and frustration with the substandard products.

The controversy, which emerged in November, exposed that more than 20 prominent Chinese brands were distributing pads that fell short of the advertised dimensions. The investigation revealed that while the exterior length of the pads adhered to the 4% margin of error permitted by national standards, the absorbent material inside was significantly shorter in many cases.

In response to mounting public pressure, one manufacturer issued an apology and committed to revamping their product line. However, the incident has not only shed light on the quality control issues within the sanitary pad industry but has also raised broader questions about women’s health and consumer rights in China.

Experts suggest that this scandal has become a catalyst for addressing long-standing grievances related to gender inequality. Chi Zhang, an associate lecturer at the University of St Andrews, noted that the controversy has spurred women to demand higher production standards and regulatory oversight for sanitary products, reframing these concerns as vital public health and national issues.

Moreover, the incident has prompted discussions on the pricing and taxation of feminine hygiene products in China. Sanitary items are subject to a 13% tax rate in the country, with women often facing a “pink tax” where products marketed to them are not only pricier but also of lower quality compared to similar goods for men.

The uproar over the sanitary pad scandal has transcended mere product quality complaints, sparking a larger conversation about menstruation, a topic that has historically been taboo in Chinese society. By demanding dignity and fairness in addressing women’s basic needs, advocates argue that this incident underscores the pressing need to confront systemic gender biases and discrimination more broadly.

As women continue to push for accountability and reform in the wake of this controversy, the call for gender equality in China’s consumer landscape has gained momentum, emphasizing the importance of upholding women’s rights and well-being in all spheres of society.