China probes companies for allegedly giving pregnancy tests to job seekers

More than a dozen Chinese companies are facing legal action for allegedly requiring job applicants to take pregnancy tests, according to state media. The case came to light when prosecutors discovered that 168 women seeking jobs at 16 companies in Nantong had been tested illegally. This highlights a contradiction in China’s economy, as the country is trying to boost birth rates while some companies are reluctant to hire pregnant workers. Chinese law prohibits employers from administering pregnancy tests or discriminating against pregnant workers. The companies involved could face fines up to $6,900 for gender discrimination.