No discrimination against women, vows Foxconn Chairman Young Liu

Faced allegations of discrimination against women

CHENNAI: Foxconn Chairman Young Liu has vowed that his company does not discriminate against married women, emphasizing that it hires employees regardless of gender.

Liu also paid glowing tribute to the significant contributions of women, particularly married women, to its operations in India.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the company’s women-only residential complex in Tamil Nadu, the chairman of the Taiwan-based iPhone contract manufacturer noted a rising trend in all types of hiring by the electronics giant in India.

“Foxconn hires irrespective of gender, but women constitute a substantial part of our workforce here. I’d like to stress that married women have greatly contributed to our efforts in India,” Liu said.

25% of new hires married women

Recently, Foxconn faced allegations of discrimination against married women in its hiring practices. A report claimed that the company was reluctant to hire married women in India. Foxconn, however, rejected the report, stating that 25 per cent of its new hires were married women.

The company also mentioned that approximately 70% of the workforce at its Tamil Nadu plant were women, making it the largest employer of women in the state.

Liu highlighted the importance of the new residential complex, noting that it provides peace of mind for employees living away from home and reduces their commute time. “This residential complex is now an essential part of Foxconn in Tamil Nadu. It aligns with our commitment to sustainability in India. For instance, we are achieving Zero Waste To Landfill validation across Asia, the Americas, and Europe. We are also implementing zero liquid discharge technology, energy-saving equipment, and rainwater harvesting in India,” he added.

Women’s health and safety

The chairman further stated that sustainability encompasses more than just cleaner and greener infrastructure; it’s about fostering a community. “Opportunities for women in India go hand-in-hand with ensuring their health and safety at work. A sustainable living environment is crucial to their success,” Liu said.

The residential complex, built by the State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) and inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, will accommodate over 18,000 women employees of Foxconn on a room-sharing basis. The project spans a 20-acre area and was constructed at a total cost of around Rs 706 crore.