In April 2026, it was reported that Chinese workers building a ‘fuel-making unit’ at a Rosneft refinery in the Khabarovsk region of Russia protested unpaid wages. Police were allegedly deployed to ‘block roads’ near the refinery and security forces allegedly restricted access to the workers’ accommodation.

The workers are reportedly employed by a contractor Petro-Hehua (part of Haihua Industry Gorup). The workers are allegedly demanding back payments and support from Rosneft’s CEO, and the reinstatement of Rosneft’s contract with Petro-Hehua.

The regional government said Rosneft had ‘established contact’ with the workers and promised assistance. Prosecutors have announced an investigation into the alleged wage theft.

In April, the Business and Human Rights Centre invited Rosneft and Haihua Industry Gorup to respond to the allegations. Rosneft’s response can be read in full below. Haihua Industry Gorup did not respond.