CHINA FACTORY PROBE
Watchdog wants Amazon to improve factory conditions in China
Seattle — A watchdog group is calling on Amazon to improve conditions for factory workers in China who make Echo speakers and Kindle e-readers, renewing criticisms that Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos became the world’s wealthiest man on the backs of low-paid labourers. The New York-based China Labour Watch has released a report following an investigation of working conditions at a factory in Hengyang owned by Hon Hai Precision Industry, the company known as Foxconn, which manufactures products for Amazon. The report offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how Amazon produces voice-activated speakers that cost as little as $40 are made. The report, which paints a picture of low pay and intense working conditions, includes the findings that "all workers are subject to long hours and low wages"; and "as wages are low, workers must rely on overtime hours to earn enough to maintain a decent standard of living". Factory audit Amazon said it had completed an audit of the factory in March and found vi...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.