Finnish authorities say concerns over possible worker exploitation have led to the rejection of most visa applications from foreign wild-berry pickers.File photo. Image: Anna-Mari Vuollet / YleYle News7:50Finland has rejected the majority of seasonal work visa applications submitted by foreign wild-berry pickers this year.According to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, around 2,200 seasonal work visa applications have been received so far. Of the roughly 1,600 applications processed, about 1,400 have been refused.The ministry said visa assessments identified indications of a risk of labour exploitation, as well as concerns that some employers may not be able to meet their legal obligations."The primary reason for refusal is that the mission processing the application is not satisfied that the employer will be able to fulfil its obligations as an employer," said Katja Luopajärvi, Director of the Visa Unit at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, in a press release.Foreign wild-berry pickers have been required to apply for seasonal work visas since changes to the Seasonal Work Act came into force in February. Previously, many pickers entered Finland under a different arrangement.The government said the legislative changes were introduced to strengthen workers' rights and help prevent labour exploitation by requiring formal employment contracts for berry pickers.The heightened scrutiny also comes after several criminal investigations and court proceedings involving Finland's wild-berry industry.