Prosecutors in Brazil to Investigate Slave Labor Complaints near São Paulo

On February 19, 2013, O Estado de São Paulo reported that federal prosecutors are investigating a case in São Paulo state involving accusations of slave labor. Police caught five Bolivian laborers that authorities say were subject to slave conditions working in a sewing factory in Americana. The women worked for a children’s clothing company, of whom the only buyer is the Brazil-based Lojas Americanas. The complaint emerged from the Federal Police in regards to a textile factory in Americana owned by a Bolivian-born resident. Upon investigation of visas and work permits on January 22, 2013, no worker had documentation. The clothing company has already faced fines related to improper working conditions, and faces more upon further investigation.  Read Article