Summary

Brazilian authorities shut down construction of BYD’s first electric vehicle plant outside Asia after discovering 163 Chinese workers living in “slavery-like” conditions.

Hired by contractor Jinjiang Construction Brazil, workers faced excessive hours, withheld passports, and degrading living conditions, including unsanitary accommodations and lack of basic necessities.

The factory, set to open in March 2025, is now under review.

BYD terminated its contract with Jinjiang, relocated workers to hotels, and pledged to investigate all contractor practices.