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Automaker's announcement about starting production in June surprises Bahia metalworkers' union
The statement by BYD's global vice president about the start of vehicle production in June at the Camaçari (BA) plant has caused tension between workers and union members. The Metalworkers' Union claims not to have received any official communication from the company and fears that the unit will function only as a logistics center, without generating significant industrial jobs.
BYD announces production for June, but no internal details
During a recent event, Stella Li, global vice president of Chinese automaker BYD said that car production at the new plant in Camaçari, Bahia, should begin in June this year. However, according to an investigation by AutoSport, the information was not previously shared with the local Metalworkers Union, which raised an alarm among workers.
Union representatives stated that there has been no formal dialogue between the company and the category to date, and criticized the lack of transparency in the process. The entity fears that the structure set up does not include complete manufacturing stages, such as stamping and welding.
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Union questions BYD's operating model in Brazil
One of the main concerns raised by the union is the risk of the plant acting only as a kit assembly center (CKD), or even as a logistics base for finished vehicles coming from China. BYD, which already operates four of its own vessels with the capacity to transport up to 28 cars per trip, is expected to expand this fleet to eight vessels by 2026, reaching 58 vehicles per trip.
This robust logistics has raised doubts about the automaker's real interest in consolidating a national production chain. The union argues that local production is essential for generating quality jobs and developing the Brazilian automotive industry.
Pressure for clarity and commitment to regional development
The initial expectation, both from the government and from local society, was that BYD's arrival in Camaçari would mean the replacement of the old Ford operation by a new era of the automotive industry in the region. However, the company's silence regarding the real production structure and the number of effective jobs reinforces the need for a clearer position.
In statements to the press, the union asked BYD to openly engage with workers and present a detailed plan of production stages, deadlines and social commitments. A lack of communication could compromise not only the relationship with employees, but also the public's trust in the project.
BYD's growth in the country requires greater institutional alignment
BYD has been expanding its presence in Brazilian market in an accelerated manner, with relevant launches in the electric and hybrid vehicle sector. However, to maintain this sustainable growth and in line with the country's expectations, experts point out the importance of transparent practices and effective investment in local industrialization.
The case of the factory in Camaçari illustrates the challenges involved in setting up large foreign companies in Brazil, especially when there are promises of regional development and job creation. The national automotive sector is closely following BYD's next steps.
BYD will exploit the exemptions to the last drop and will not manufacture anything any time soon.
Arrangements were made with the dirty political wing of Brazil and Bahia, all agreed to gain an advantage over competitors who produce in the country. Once again, crime is paying off in the Brazilian country!