Written by Collins Eshiet | Edite by Cláudio Afonso
The Brazilian Labor Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into the working conditions of laborers at the BYD factory construction site.
The country’s national public agency report accused subcontractors of subjecting workers at the construction site to excessive hours, with shifts lasting up to 12 hours seven days a week. The report also mentioned allegations of physical abuse by supervisors, insufficient access to safe drinking water, inadequate protective gear, and substandard living conditions.
The carmaker responded to allegations of worker abuse with a statement condemning the incidents and announcing the removal and barring of those involved from the site. The company also instructed its subcontractors to implement urgent measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“BYD has been operating in Brazil for 10 years, strictly adhering to local laws and maintaining a commitment to ethics, respect, and human dignity,” the company said in a statement.
The investigation was prompted by an anonymous tip received on September 30, followed by an on-site inspection on November 11.
BYD, which produces battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, began construction of its new facility in October 2023. Located in an industrial complex previously owned by Ford, the site will include three factories and is projected to have an initial production capacity of 150,000 vehicles annually.
Local media outlet Folha de São Paulo quoted prosecutor Bernardo Guimarães, who stated, “The information we have collected so far indicates the need for adjustments in workplace procedures to ensure the health and safety of employees.”
BYD admitted to irregularities involving workers at the site and has called on contractors overseeing the project to take immediate corrective action. The company also confirmed that affected workers have received necessary support and remain employed at the site.
Written by Collins Eshiet | Edite by Cláudio Afonso
