Garment workers in Fiji are currently grappling with some of the lowest wages in the country, a situation highlighted by Felix Anthony, national secretary of the Fiji Trade Union Congress. As costs associated with operations and labor rise, the Textile Clothing and Footwear Council has indicated an urgent need to adjust the national minimum wage. Anthony criticized the garment industry for using rising costs as an excuse to avoid raising wages, noting, “There never has been a good time for workers’ wages to be revised.”
Anthony stressed that the current wage frameworks are skewed in favor of employers, putting workers at a disadvantage as they struggle to support their families. He pointed out that even the Wages Council Orders for unskilled workers fall short of the National Minimum Wage, underscoring the need for immediate wage reforms.
This push for a wage increase coincides with significant challenges facing Fiji’s garment manufacturing industry. Reports have surfaced about the closure of local factories, increased competition from countries such as Bangladesh and China, and a decline in orders for local manufacturers. The president of the Textile Clothing and Footwear Council has raised concerns that rising labor costs could lead to further downsizing in the industry, potentially threatening jobs.
Shabana Azmin, production and sales manager at Nagsun Apparel, has expressed similar sentiments, revealing that past wage increases have already contributed to operational difficulties. The company has resorted to reducing work hours as a response to financial pressures, yet it continues to face stiff competition from imports and a slowdown in client demand.
Notably, industry leaders agree that any discussion surrounding wage policies must balance the need for employee welfare with the sustainability of businesses. Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica is reportedly taking a proactive role in these discussions, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue and strategic investments in revitalizing Fiji’s manufacturing sector.
In light of these pressing issues, there is a clear need for wage reform to support garment workers. However, it is equally vital to ensure that these discussions factor in the long-term viability of the industry. With the right strategies in place, there remains hope for creating an environment where workers’ rights and the needs of businesses can coexist harmoniously, potentially leading to a stronger and more resilient economy for Fiji.
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