Bangladesh urges global partners to honour conditions of RMG purchasing contracts
Bangladesh and five other countries have urged global brands, retailers and traders to consider all potential impacts on employees and smaller businesses in the supply chain while taking significant purchasing decisions.
Nine textile and garment business associations of STAR Network (Sustainable Textile of Asian Region) from six creating and export countries also known as on the global partners to honour the terms of purchasing contracts, fulfil obligations therein, rather than re-negotiate price or payment terms.
This joint statement was made by Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), China National Textile and Apparel Council (CNTAC), Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia (GMAC), Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association (MGMA), Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PHMA), Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA), Towel Manufacturers Association of Pakistan (TMA) and Vietnam Textile and Garment Association (VITAS).
They called for taking delivery or shipment, and proceeding with payment as agreed upon for goods already produced and currently in production with materials ready, rather than cancelling orders that already are in production.
The joint statement said in this unprecedented time, responsible business is becoming more important than ever before for your world to survive and recover from the crisis.
Especially, responsible purchasing practices of brand companies, retailers and traders of the global textile and apparel supply chains provides enormous impacts on the essential rights of an incredible number of workers and the livelihood of their own families in the supplier end, the statement reads.
The organisations said it really is time for global businesses to uphold and honour their commitment to labour rights, social responsibility and sustainable supply chains.
They needed putting no responsibility on suppliers for delay of delivery or shipment and for claiming no compensation for such delays no further improper pressure on suppliers by additional costs, rushing orders or unnecessary visits and audits.
The organisations sought all efforts and build relationships local stakeholders for an improved understanding of the local situation and contexts.
They underscored the necessity for dialogue and collaborative settlement to make sure mutually acceptable solutions to disputes.
The organisations sought support for business partners on supply chain as much as possible, and aim at long-term strategy of business continuity, supply chain unity and social sustainability.
"We appreciate the understanding, collaboration and support of our business partners and other stakeholders, and we are ready to work and walk with all responsible buyers globally to complete this crisis, towards a shared bright future," said the joint statement.
