Samsung has issued a statement stating that it is suspending business with Dongguan Shinyang Electronics Co. Ltd. The supplier, located in China, was accused by China Labor Watch last week, of hiring children to work in one of its factories.
After the accusation was made, Samsung conducted its own investigation and found evidence of “suspected child labor at the work site.”
Samsung said that it conducted three audits of the company since 2013, with the latest one taking place on June 25, 2014. The company said that it did not see any evidence of child labor at that time. However, since the China Labor Watch allegations were made, it did find evidence that illegal hiring took place on June 29th.
“It is unfortunate that the allegation surfaced despite Samsung’s efforts to prevent child labor at its suppliers. As part of its pledge against child labor, Samsung routinely conducts inspections to monitor its suppliers in China to ensure they follow the commitment, and has provided necessary support.”
If further investigations confirm that children were hired to work at the factory, Samsung said it would permanently halt all business with Dongguan Shinyang Electronics Co. Ltd. Samsung also said it would “strengthen” hiring practices at its own facilities as well as those of its suppliers.
“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 labor.
Furthermore, Samsung will strengthen its hiring process not only at its production facilities but also at its suppliers to prevent such case from reoccurring.”
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