Chinese mining companies in Zambia are coming under pressure from international human rights groups to follow the laws of the country and stop abusing workers. A study from Human Rights Watch found bad health and safety conditions, violations of hours and that workers were subject to dangerous work and threats. The mining companies deny the charges, and say that they follow all labor laws. Mining is a large part of Zambia's economy.
See "Chinese firms abusing Zambian miners-rights group", Chiwoyu Sinyangwe and Ed Cropley, Reuters, November 2, 2011