Brazil has suspended issuing temporary work visas to Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD following accusations of human trafficking at a construction site in the northeastern state of Bahia. The move comes after 163 Chinese workers were found to have been brought to Brazil irregularly, in “slavery-like” conditions. Byd has denied any wrongdoing, citing misunderstandings. If confirmed, Brazil’s Ministry of Justice threatens to revoke residence permits issued to the workers.
BYD, which is investing $620 million in a Bahia factory complex, has become a symbol of China’s growing influence in Brazil and an example of a closer relationship between both countries. The company plans to start production in Brazil early next year with an initial annual output of 150,000 cars. Nearly one in five BYD cars sold outside of China in the first 11 months of 2024 were sold in Brazil.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/brazilian-suspends-temporary-work-visas-byd-ministry-2024-12-27