Labor Minister Eddy Olivares has exposed what he describes as “inhumane” working conditions in several Chinese-owned commercial establishments. In recent months, the Ministry of Labor has ordered several stores shut down for violations of labor laws. leading to their temporary closure. Olivares’ revelations come as inspectors continue to crack down on businesses found to be in violation of labor laws, as reported in El Nacional.
According to Olivares, the intervened businesses subjected employees to deplorable conditions, including temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) in aluzinc-constructed warehouses lacking proper ventilation. Inspectors also found severely neglected restrooms, an absence of first-aid kits, and wages that fell below the minimum legal standard.
During the interview, Olivares said the Chinese complained that Dominicans do not want the jobs, but who would want to work in such conditions, he argued. The Chinese hired undocumented Haitians.
Minister Olivares, speaking on the program “El Día” broadcast on Telesistema, Channel 11, detailed the grim discoveries.
Olivares stressed the ministry’s commitment to continuing the closure of companies that fail to comply with labor laws and ensure the safety and health of their workers. He also highlighted the importance of protecting small Dominican entrepreneurs from unfair practices, while still acknowledging the principle of a free market.
The minister firmly denied any government-led campaign against Chinese businesses, which significantly contribute to the country’s commercial landscape, particularly in key areas like Duarte Avenue.
During initial inspections, Olivares reported that many employees, largely Haitian citizens, fled the premises after being told by employers that migration authorities were present. This situation was documented by inspectors.
Following the closures, the Ministry of Labor mandated significant improvements before allowing businesses to reopen. These included the installation of industrial-grade extractors (as opposed to the low-quality ones initially proposed), as well as the provision of proper dining areas and rest areas for workers.
Olivares noted a dramatic shift in employment practices. “They worked eight hours but didn’t pay minimum wages. That’s over,” he asserted. “They have to pay annual bonuses and minimum wages, guaranteeing all workers’ rights, “ he said. He observed that where there were no Dominicans, the stores that have reopened now have payrolls with 60 and 70 Dominicans, including young people.”
In response to the recent closures, the board of directors of the Chinese Colony Center in the Dominican Republic had voiced its concern. Rosa NG, representing the organization, called for an end to practices that “fuel discrimination and prejudice against Chinese merchants.” She emphasized the need for “dialogue and guidance, not actions that jeopardize jobs.”
During the interview, Olivares explained the Chinese stores were notified on several occasions of the violations but failed to correct the situations.
Last week, the Ministry of Labor announced that a recent operation by the Inspection Directorate across 13 stores on Duarte Avenue in the National District revealed numerous violations compromising the health, safety, and labor rights of workers.
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El Dia – 31:40 minutes
El Nacional
16 July 2025