Memphis, Tennessee, USA: Raj Subramaniam, CEO of FedEx Corporation, has responded to criticism over the company’s use of H-1B visas, stating that FedEx follows a merit-driven hiring approach based strictly on skills and business needs, not nationality.

In an interview with The New York Times, Subramaniam voiced strong support for legal immigration, citing his own journey to the US as a student with limited means. He said immigration played a key role in his success and symbolized the opportunities the country offers.

The remarks come after weeks of online and political backlash alleging that FedEx favored foreign workers while cutting US jobs. The criticism intensified following reports of increased H-1B visa filings during a period of corporate restructuring.

FedEx has rejected these claims, clarifying that H-1B employees make up only a small fraction of its US workforce and that visa approvals do not guarantee employment. The company also noted that many eliminated roles were not eligible for H-1B sponsorship.

Reaffirming FedEx’s stance, Subramaniam said the company will continue to hire top talent while fully complying with US laws, emphasizing that fairness and opportunity remain central to FedEx’s operations amid the broader national debate on skilled immigration.