BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, is set to open its first European factory in Szeged, Hungary, by 2027. However, the project is embroiled in allegations of labor rights abuses, as reported by China Labor Watch (CLW). Interviews with over 50 migrant workers revealed potential violations of EU labor laws, including seven-day work weeks, excessive overtime, and recruitment fees that could lead to debt bondage for workers from low-income regions in China. The European Commission is aware of these allegations and has noted that a case is pending with the Hungarian labor inspectorate. Concerns have also been raised about health risks, particularly following a fatal accident at the site in February. The new Hungarian government, led by Péter Magyar, has pledged to review Chinese investments, including a nearby battery plant. The BYD project represents a significant $4.5 billion investment aimed at transforming Szeged's economy, with plans to employ around 10,000 workers to produce 300,000 cars annually. As the situation unfolds, it highlights the scrutiny of labor practices in the European electric vehicle sector.