Title: BYD‘s Electric Vehicle Plant in Brazil Shut Down Over Slave Labor Concerns
In an alarming turn of events, Brazilian authorities haveordered the halt of construction on Chinese electric vehicle maker Build Your Dreams (BYD)’s plant in the country, following allegations of forced labor. The revelation has salvaged scores of workers from what authorities describe as modern-day slavery.
Citing sources from Reuters and BBC, Brazil’s Ministry of Labor (MPT) confirmed the rescue of around 160 workers in Bahia, Brazil. In response, BYD has severed ties with involved construction companies, pledging to adhere to local labor laws and ensure the safety and rights of subcontracted workers, who have since been moved to nearby hotels.
The 160 workers, hailing from China, were housed in subpar facilities, reportedly living without pay, and their passports were withheld. They were cramped into shared accommodations—up to 31 workers per bathroom—operating too early, violating local labor regulations.
"Such conditions indicate a scenario of insecurity and debasement, amounting to slavery," said MPT. Moreover, the ministry classified the scenario as ‘human trafficking’ due to widespread wage retention and high subcontracting fees that forced workers into debt.
BYD’s Brazil plant, slated to commence operations in March 2024, was set to be the company’s first overseas facility. This development casts a dark shadow over the project’s intended impact on Brazil’s budding electric vehicle industry.
