Volkswagen discusses human rights audit at Chinese factory with partner SAIC Motor

Volkswagen is in discussions with joint-venture partner SAIC Motor about whether to conduct independent audits of its plants in China’s Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region, the company said.

Comments are coming after German business Handelsblatt It reported that preparations for the audit had already begun. VW declined to confirm this.

A spokesperson said they were having “good discussions” on the subject, including with SAIC.

Volkswagen Investors are pressuring automakers to conduct audits of factories in Xinjiang where rights groups have intervened. documented human rights violations Including collective forced labor.

China denies that human rights abuses are taking place in the region.

The company is holding its Capital Markets Day on Wednesday, and investors hope the topic will be discussed.