Metalworkers at Brazilian plants of General Motors have voted to go on strike starting Monday in protest against layoffs carried out by the US-based automaker in the country, according to a union that represents them.

The strike occurs as GM announced it would reduce workforce at its three factories in Sao Paulo state after a drop in sales and exports, a move it called “necessary” for the company’s sustainability.

Sindmetal, the union representing metalworkers at the Sao Jose dos Campos plant, reported that workers voted to strike on Monday. Employees at Sao Caetano do Sul and Mogi das Cruzes also voted to strike.

“The plant will only resume production after job cuts are canceled and job stability is guaranteed for all,” the union stated, arguing that the company had agreed to provide stability until May 2024.

There are about 4,000 employees at GM’s Sao Jose dos Campos plant, which makes engines, gearboxes, the Trailblazer SUV, and the S-10 truck, according to the union, which previously temporarily suspended the contracts of 1,200 workers.

There was no indication of how many workers were laid off by General Motors or the union.

Layoffs have been confirmed by GM, although the company did not immediately comment on the strike.

In a statement, General Motors says the move is necessary and will ensure the company’s agility. “We understand the impact this might have on people’s lives,” the company says.