Brazilian authorities have found 163 Chinese workers in “slavery-like conditions” at a construction site for a factory owned by BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle producer. The workers were hired through an irregular process and worked long hours, exceeding Brazilian law limits of seven days a week.
The workers were subjected to degrading conditions, including withholding their passports, forcing them to request permission to leave their lodgings, and failing to meet minimum safety standards at the work site. Authorities have discovered that the conditions are so severe they amount to forced labor, debt bondage, and a clear disregard for worker dignity.
BYD has denied any wrongdoing, stating it severed ties with the firm that hired the workers and is collaborating with authorities to address the situation. However, officials say the company’s response has been insufficient, particularly since fines have yet to be issued. An investigation into the matter continues, with officials determined to hold accountable those responsible for these heinous conditions.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/workers-found-slavery-like-conditions-byd-construction-site-brazil-2024-12-23