163 Chinese Workers Found in “Slavery-Like Conditions” at BYD Factory in Brazil

Brazilian authorities have discovered 163 Chinese workers employed under “slavery-like conditions” at a construction site for a factory owned by Chinese electric vehicle company BYD in Bahia state, the labor prosecutor’s office reported on Monday.

The workers were reportedly recruited in China by a separate company and brought to Brazil under irregular circumstances. Investigations revealed that they were forced to work excessively long hours, often beyond the limits set by Brazilian labor laws, and sometimes for seven days a week. Their working conditions were described as degrading, with several other labor violations documented.

In a statement, BYD announced it had terminated its relationship with the company responsible for hiring the workers. The firm also expressed its commitment to cooperating with authorities and providing support to the affected individuals. However, the names of the firms involved in the recruitment were not disclosed.

Brazilian law defines “slavery-like conditions” broadly, encompassing forced labor, debt bondage, degrading work environments, excessive working hours that endanger health, and any work that violates human dignity.

Labor inspector Liane Durao reported that the workers had to obtain permission to leave their accommodations, and at least 107 had their passports confiscated by their employer. She also highlighted the hazardous and unsafe conditions at the worksite.

“The work of these 163 individuals was carried out in slavery-like conditions,” Durao stated during a press conference. “Basic safety standards were not being met.”

The investigation is ongoing, and fines have not yet been imposed, according to Durao.

Agency