EFP Calls for Improved Working Conditions to Safeguard Pakistan’s Trade Status

KARACHI: The Employers Federation of Pakistan (EFP), supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO) through the Rise for Impact (Cotton INDITEX Project), has conducted awareness sessions to enhance working conditions in Pakistan’s cotton supply chain. The sessions, held in Sukkur and Khairpur, aimed to promote Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (FPRW) among cotton-growing communities and landlords.

According to a statement by Employers’ Federation of Pakistan, the sessions focused on improving respect for FPRW to maintain Pakistan’s GSP-Plus status, which allows for preferential trade terms with the European Union. Syed Nazar Ali, Secretary General of EFP, underscored the importance of decent working conditions for the growth of the cotton sector and the country’s trade privileges. He detailed EFP’s ongoing initiatives to promote responsible business practices.

Gulfam Nabi, a consultant, delivered a presentation on the key areas of FPRW, which include freedom of association, elimination of forced labor, abolition of child labor, elimination of discrimination, and securing a safe work environment. These principles are intended to empower workers and improve the overall working conditions in the cotton industry.

During discussions, participants highlighted challenges such as substandard seeds and poor-quality urea affecting cotton crop yields. Nazar emphasized the importance of social dialogue and proposed forming a forum for small-scale cotton growers to unify their voices and engage with stakeholders.

The participants showed interest in forming an employer association, agreeing to establish the Small Cotton Growers’ Association in each district. A committee was set up to finalize the association’s names and office bearers. Additionally, they requested EFP’s assistance in technical training and registration processes.

Source: Employers’ Federation of Pakistan

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