Brazilian officials have made shocking revelations about the treatment of 163 Chinese workers who were found laboring under what authorities describe as "slavery-like conditions" at a construction site for BYD, the Chinese electric vehicle giant, located in Camaçari, Bahia.
This discovery was announced after a task force, led by Brazilian prosecutors, rescued the workers who were hired irregularly via Jinjiang Construction Brazil, one of the firms contracted to build the factory. The workers had reportedly been subjected to oppressive conditions, working excessive hours—often beyond legal limits, and frequently seven days a week.
According to the Brazil’s Labor Prosecutor’s Office, the workers experienced not only extreme work hours but also poor living conditions described as degrading and dangerous. Liane Durao, the local labor inspector, spoke at a news conference detailing the conditions: "We found... these 163 workers was carried out in slavery-like conditions. Minimum safety conditions were not being met in the work environment."
The Brazilian government indicated the workers were brought to Brazil under dubious circumstances, having been hired from China and facing restrictions on their freedom. For example, many of these workers had their passports confiscated by Jinjiang Construction and were compelled to ask permission to leave their dormitory accommodations.
Visual evidence from the investigation revealed the dire state of living conditions; videos showed dorm spaces with mattresses missing, and personal belongings stored inadequately. The prosecutor’s office released footage of the dormitories, exposing the unsanitary environments the workers were facing with only one toilet available for every 31 workers.
To make matters worse, if any worker decided to leave, they were threatened with substantial financial penalties, including covering their airfare from China. Jinjiang Construction allegedly withheld up to 60 percent of the workers' wages, adding to what many would call modern-day exploitation.
To address these human rights and labor violations, BYD has publicly stated their intention to sever ties with Jinjiang Construction Brazil immediately. The electronic vehicle manufacturer, known for its expansive production capabilities, confirmed plans to relocate affected workers to nearby hotels.
Speaking on this situation, BYD stated on Monday night it is also reviewing other potential measures to address the circumstances surrounding its contract worker's treatment. A spokesperson for BYD highlighted previous communications with contractors required them to make necessary adjustments, hinting at prior knowledge of working conditions.
The illegal labor practices uncovered have sparked significant outcry from various stakeholders, emphasizing the fact the situation reflects broader issues of labor rights not only within Brazil but also concerning international labor practices. Local officials reinforced the definition of "slavery-like conditions" noting it covers anything from forced labor to degrading work outputs and times of work beyond health limits.
The troubling news has also prompted reactions from the Chinese government. A spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to protecting the rights of workers abroad, asserting, "The Chinese government attaches great importance to the legitimate rights and interests of workers, and asks Chinese-invested companies to do business in accordance with laws and regulations." This statement reflects growing concerns about how Chinese companies operate globally.
This scandal serves as not only a wake-up call about the labor practices at international construction sites but also highlights the complex interplay between economic interests, labor rights, and corporate accountability. With BYD at the forefront of electrical vehicle production and facing market scrutiny, the company's response to these allegations could significantly impact its reputation and future business operations.
Meanwhile, investigations by the Brazilian authorities are still underway, and fines have yet to be issued, illustrating the seriousness with which they are embracing the pursuit of labor justice. The focus now shifts to how companies and governments can collaborate to prevent future labor abuses and encourage ethical labor practices across borders.
