Volkswagen Executive Deported From China After Positive Cannabis Test

Volkswagen's VWAGY chief marketing officer and head of product strategy for China, Jochen Sengpiehl, was deported from China after testing positive for cannabis during a mandatory customs drug test. The test was conducted after Sengpieh's return from a vacation in Koh Samui, Thailand.

After routine test results revealed traces of marijuana in his system, Chinese authorities detained Sengpiehl for questioning, reportedly holding him for more than 10 days, writes wardsauto. Per the reports, Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered his deportation.

The creator of VW's famous slogan "Das Auto," Sengpiehl played a crucial role in positioning the company's electric-vehicle business in a highly competitive Chinese market. He previously worked for top brands like Nissan NSANY, DaimlerChrysler and Hyundai HYMTF.

Thailand decriminalized cannabis in 2022 and Germany partially legalized it this past April, However, in China, cannabis consumption is treated with zero tolerance.

Following the liberalization of cannabis laws in Thailand, tourists primarily from Asian countries like Japan, Malaysia, China and the Philippines are viewed as common as cannabis customers. Singapore’s Central Narcotics Bureau announced plans to randomly test people returning from Thailand. China’s embassy in Thailand also cautioned Chinese tourists that consuming cannabis abroad could lead to penalties upon their return, as such actions are considered domestic violations.

Read Also: Inside The Thai Retreat With Cannabis-Infused Wellness Treatments That Target Insomnia And More

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VW In China

Volkswagen is under pressure from local manufacturers like BYD BYDDF, a publicly listed Chinese multinational manufacturing conglomerate. Last year, BYD overtook Volkswagen as China's best-selling car brand.

In September, Volkswagen partnered with the German start-up Revoltech GmbH to research and develop sustainable materials based on industrial hemp. These could be used as sustainable surface materials in Volkswagen models from 2028.

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Price Action

Volkswagen shares closed Monday's market session 0.10% lower at $10.20 per share.

Photo: Gyuszko-Photo on Shutterstock