Chinese firms to pay USD14 million back wages in Saipan

A casino being built in Saipan

Four China-based construction firms will pay nearly USD14 million in back wages and damages to thousands of Chinese workers for construction of a casino in the U.S. Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Investigators found the contractors paid employees less than what was required by law, according to a U.S. Department of Labor statement released Monday.

The settlement by the companies will affect more than 2,400 employees.

U.S. officials say workers entered on tourist visas and without proper visa authorization. They were also forced to incur debt of thousands of dollars for airfare and recruitment fees prior to their employment in Saipan, according to the settlement.

“These settlements ensure that thousands of workers will receive the wages they legally earned, while simultaneously sending a strong, clear message to other employers,” said Bryan Jarrett, the Labor Department’s Wage and Hour Acting Administrator in a statement. “Employers who evade the law in an attempt to reduce expenses must not gain a competitive advantage over those who play by the rules. Regardless of where work is performed in the U.S. or its territories, we will continue to enforce the law and level the playing field.”

The Chinese laborers worked 13 hours a day without weekends or holidays, and had their passports confiscated upon arrival in Saipan, said Li Qiang, the executive director of New York- based China Labor Watch, an advocacy group. Li communicated with the affected workers and liaised with U.S. officials to seek retribution for owed wages.

“More Chinese companies are expanding abroad, and in regions like the U.S. and Europe, hiring labor there can be expensive,” Li said. “Firms will prefer bringing Chinese workers.” But oftentimes, the workers are lured with false promises such as high wages and even help in obtaining a green card — none of which materializes once they arrive. Higher fines and penalties levied by U.S. authorities will help combat these practices, Li said.

Hong Kong-based Imperial Pacific International contracted with the four Chinese firms for construction on Saipan. The company said in a statement Tuesday that it’s pleased a settlement was reached.

Monday’s settlements are part of a wider investigation into the company’s casino and hotel project on the island.

Saipan island in the western Pacific is the seat of government of the Northern Mariana Islands. Sophia Yan, Honolulu, AP