Brazil Halts BYD Visa Issuance Over Human Trafficking

Brazil has suspended the issuance of temporary work visas for Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD following allegations that 163 workers were subjected to 'slavery-like' conditions at a construction site in Bahia, employed by contractor Jinjiang Group. Labor authorities reported that the workers faced severe living conditions, including inadequate facilities and wage withholding, and suggested they were victims of human trafficking. Jinjiang Group has denied the accusations, attributing the misunderstandings to translation issues. The Brazilian Ministry of Justice indicated that if the findings are confirmed, it may revoke the workers' residence permits. These allegations come as BYD plans to begin vehicle production in Brazil next year, with an investment of $620 million at the Bahia site, a key location for the company's operations in the South American market. The situation highlights growing concerns regarding labor practices amidst China's expanding influence in Brazil.