Wal-Mart says it's willing to let its employees in China set up trade unions, responding to media reports of criticism by the country's national union federation.

Wal-Mart Stores, the world's largest retailer, says it's willing to let its employees in China set up trade unions, responding to media reports of criticism by the country's national union federation.

Wal-Mart said in a statement that should its associates request a union, Wal-Mart China would respect their wishes and honor its obligation under China's Trade Union Law.

It also claims its establishment in China is currently in full compliance with China's Trade Union Law.

But currently, there are no unions in Wal-Mart China because associates have not requested that one be formed, according to Wal-Mart's statement.

Earlier, the All-China Federation of Trade Unions blamed foreign companies including Wal-Mart, Eastman Kodak Co. and Dell Inc. for not allowing unions in their Chinese operations.

Wal-Mart, which bought 15 billion US dollars worth of goods from China last year, plans to open as many as 15 new stores in the country next year, taking its total to 58, Joe Hatfield, chief executive for Asia, said in an interview earlier this month.

(CRIENGLISH.com/Bloomberg)