Employment conditions in the clothing manufacturing sector
The garment industry is not immune to political issues, and there are several political concerns that can impact the industry.
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Labour laws and regulations:
The garment industry is heavily reliant on labour, and as such, changes in labour laws and regulations can have a significant impact. Changes in minimum wage laws, for example, can lead to increased costs for manufacturers, which can then be passed on to consumers.
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Trade policies:
The garment industry is also subject to trade policies, such as tariffs and quotas, which can affect the cost of production and ultimately impact the price of clothing for consumers. Changes in trade policies can also impact the availability of materials and labor for manufacturers.
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Human rights:
The garment industry has faced criticism over human rights violations, such as forced labor, child labor, and unsafe working conditions. These issues have become political concerns, and governments may face pressure from civil society groups and international organizations to take action.
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Environmental regulations:
The production of clothing can have significant environmental impacts, such as water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Governments may introduce regulations aimed at reducing these impacts, which can impact the cost of production for manufacturers.
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Less paycheques in developing countries
Outsourcing production to low wage countries such as Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka became possible when the Multi Fibre Agreement (MFA) was abolished. The MFA, which placed quotas on textiles imports, was deemed a protectionist
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International relations:
The garment industry is a global industry, and political tensions between countries can impact the industry. For example, trade disputes between the United States and China have led to tariffs on clothing, which has impacted the cost of production and ultimately the price of clothing for consumers.