
From The Times
April 18, 2008
Bernard Arnault offers support to China after threat of LVMH boycott
Adam Sage in Paris
Bernard Arnault, the chairman of LVMH, the French luxury goods group, distanced himself from the Dalai Lama with a show of support for Beijing yesterday amid growing concern in France over Chinese calls for a boycott of Gallic products.
France’s best-known business leader spoke out with Chinese internet users targeting Paris for criticism following the pro-Tibetan demonstrations that accompanied the Olympic torch relay.
Consumers are being urged to boycott groups such as Carrefour, the supermarket chain, and Mr Arnault’s celebrated LVMH brands, which include Louis Vuitton, Hennessy and Fendi.
With French exports to China worth