GM workers in Brazil go on strike in protest against layoffs

In a show of protest against the recent layoffs by General Motors (GM) in Brazil, metalworkers at GM plants in the country have voted to go on strike starting Monday, according to the Sindmetal union. The automaker had announced a workforce reduction at its three factories in Sao Paulo state, citing a decline in sales and exports as the reason for this “necessary” move for its sustainability.

The strike, which will last for an “indefinite period of time,” will be carried out by the employees of the Sao Jose dos Campos, Sao Caetano do Sul, and Mogi das Cruzes plants. The Sindmetal union emphasized that production at the plants will only resume after the job cuts are revoked and job security is guaranteed for all workers. The union pointed out that GM had previously agreed to provide job stability until May 2024.

The Sao Jose dos Campos plant, where GM manufactures engines, gearboxes, the Trailblazer SUV, and the S-10 truck, employs around 4,000 people, including 1,200 whose contracts were temporarily suspended. However, neither GM nor the union disclosed the exact number of workers who were laid off.

While GM did not directly comment on the strike, it did confirm the layoffs. In a statement, GM expressed their understanding of the impact this decision might have on people’s lives while highlighting the necessity of the move to maintain operational agility.

Alberto Alerigi Jr. and Alexandre Caverni reported this story; Gabriel Araujo wrote it. David Evans provided editorial assistance.