Audi’s plant in Mexico remains open, debt dispute denied by automaker

A Mexican auto plant belonging to German automaker Audi remains open and did not close after a dispute over unpaid bills that the firm rejects, as was reported by local media, an official with the company informed Reuters on Saturday.

The plant is situated in the central state of Puebla. Media had reported officials from the local municipality closed the facility on Friday after several hours of failed talks to resolve a dispute over an alleged 90 million pesos ($4.3 million) in outstanding debts on items consisting of local property taxes and water bills.

“There was never any closure,” said Christine Kuhlmeyer, a communications official with Audi Mexico.

“We comply on time with our obligations,” Kuhlmeyer added.

Asked about the figures circulating in regional media regarding the allegation of unpaid debts, Kuhlmeyer said she could not discuss any specific amounts, but said plant representatives would be discussing with state authorities on Monday.

“There were efforts like what’s been reported in the news, but they weren’t able to close the plant,” Kuhlmeyer said and also said that Friday night and Saturday morning work shifts were not interrupted.