Brazil's Ministry of Labor has ordered the construction of a BYD factory to be halted due to reports of egregious labor violations. According to the Ministry, Chinese workers on the construction site were working in deplorable conditions, with passports being held by the company, 60% of their wages being withheld as a deposit, and inadequate living quarters with no mattresses, substandard toilet facilities, and poor sanitation.
BYD's local representative has since terminated the contract with the contractor company.
The allegations against BYD come as the company continues to expand its operations globally, with a focus on electric vehicles. The incident has raised concerns about the company's treatment of its workers and its commitment to upholding labor standards abroad.
Meanwhile, BYD has faced criticism for its labor practices in the past, with reports of workers being subjected to long working hours, inadequate safety measures, and poor working conditions.
The Brazilian government has announced an investigation into the allegations, with a focus on uncovering the truth behind the labor violations and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
As the investigation continues, the fate of the BYD factory remains uncertain, with many calling for the company to be held accountable for its actions. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring fair labor practices and protecting the rights of workers worldwide.