A spokesperson for Chinese automaker BYD has objected to reports about poor conditions at a construction site in Brazil where it is building a factory, saying the allegations were aimed at “smearing” China and Chinese brands.

Construction at BYD’s new EV plant in Brazil was suddenly halted Monday after authorities found Chinese workers in “slavery-like”

Authorities rescued 163 workers living in inhumane conditions, prompting BYD to sever ties with its construction partner.

Dozens of Chinese workers have been taken and put up in hotels in Brazil’s tropical northeastern region after local labor authorities found them at a construction site for electric vehicle automaker B

Announcement came days after labour authorities also said they found Chinese workers at factory in Bahia were victims of human trafficking.