WH Car Service gets go-ahead to reopen
But Chinese-operated auto shop must first meet agreed conditions
Published:Monday | June 16, 2025 | 12:09 AM
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) has cleared WH Car Service, the popular Chinese-operated auto repair shop, to reopen following investigations into labour law compliance.
The garage, located at Ferry Pen, near the St Catherine–St Andrew border, was ordered closed in April after operating for just two months. It is now permitted to resume business once it meets a range of agreed conditions.
“The MLSS welcomes foreign talent but emphasises the importance of compliance with labour laws. We are committed to enforcing regulations and protecting the rights of workers. We will continue to work with the relevant agencies to ensure fair employment practices and prevent exploitation,” said portfolio minister Pearnel Charles Jr in a statement yesterday.
The ministry and the operators reached an agreement on several remedial measures to ensure full compliance.
– Enrolling all employees in the HEART/NSTA Trust programme to acquire their prior learning certificate.
– Establishing a structured apprenticeship programme through the Jamaica-German Automotive School (JAGAS) in collaboration with HEART/NSTA Trust.
– Permitting HEART/NSTA Trust/JAGAS instructors to understudy operations at the garage to facilitate knowledge transfer and skills development.
– Submitting a detailed list of all Jamaican employees, including names, wages, and positions, along with copies of their fully endorsed employment contracts to the ministry within three months of reopening.
HEART/NSTA Trust is the country’s main skills training agency.
The minister said the ministry will conduct regular inspections to monitor the implementation of the agreed measures. He said the ministry will also provide businesses – including WH Car Service – with ongoing support and guidance to reinforce fair employment practices.
Authorities shut the operation down following an investigation that revealed that several Chinese workers were either employed without permits or were in breach of the terms of their approved work status.
By the time of its closure, WH Car Service had already built a strong customer base. It was praised for offering reliable and affordable service that many customers felt outperformed local auto mechanics. Motorists were forming long lines daily, from as early as 3 a.m.
The shop employed 10 Chinese mechanics.