Samsung has suspended business with a Chinese factory accused of hiring child labour.
Last week (10 July), China Labour Watch (CLW) accused Dongguan Shinyang Electronics of hiring children, upon which Samsung launched an investigation into the allegations.
According to a statement on the Samsung official global blog, the company has decided to temporarily suspend business with the factory in question as it found evidences of suspected child labour at the worksite. The decision was made in accordance with Samsung’s zero tolerance policy on child labour.
“It is unfortunate that the allegation surfaced despite Samsung’s efforts to prevent child labour at its suppliers,” the company states. “As part of its pledge against child labour, Samsung routinely conducts inspections to monitor its suppliers in China to ensure they follow the commitment, and has provided necessary support.
“For Dongguan Shinyang Electronics, Samsung has conducted audits on three occasions since 2013, with the latest one ending on 25 June 2014. No cases of child labour were found during these audits.
“In the separate investigation following the CLW allegations, however, Samsung found evidence of illegal hiring process that took place on 29 June. The Chinese authorities are also looking into the case.
“If the investigations conclude that the supplier indeed hired children illegally, Samsung will permanently halt business with the supplier in accordance with its zero tolerance policy on child labour.
“Furthermore, Samsung will strengthen its hiring process not only at its production facilities but also at its suppliers to prevent such a case from reoccurring.”