Official statements from the Brazilian Ministry of Labor

BYD Factory in Bahia, Brazil Halted as 163 Chinese Workers Rescued from Slave-Like Conditions, Jinjiang Group Denies Claims

Dec 26, 2024, 10:57 AM

Brazilian authorities have rescued 163 Chinese workers from what has been described as 'slave-like conditions' at a construction site for an electric car factory owned by BYD in Bahia. The workers were reportedly subjected to degrading working conditions, including the confiscation of passports, retention of up to 60% of their salaries as deposits, and unsanitary living conditions. The Brazilian Ministry of Labor conducted the operation, leading to the suspension of construction at the site. In response to the allegations, BYD announced the termination of its contract with Jinjiang Group, the Chinese contractor responsible for the project. Jinjiang Group has denied the claims, asserting that the accusations are unfounded and the result of misunderstandings. The situation has raised concerns about human trafficking, as many of the workers were flown in from China. Brazilian authorities are continuing their investigations into the matter.