Chinese workers in BYD Brazil factory face abusive labor conditions, investigators say

Chinese workers at a BYD factory in Brazil faced abusive labor conditions, according to investigators. They earned about $70 for a 10-hour shift but had to surrender their passports, send most wages to China, and pay a nearly $900 deposit. The labor contract included clauses that violate laws in both Brazil and China. Workers reported being subjected to fines for minor infractions and the company could extend contracts without consent. Investigators labeled these conditions as "slavery-like." BYD and its contractor Jinjiang denied the allegations. Jinjiang claimed the findings were based on misunderstandings. BYD stated it was unaware of any violations until late November and has since engaged with Brazilian authorities to address the situation.