Highlights: The International Accord Secretariat and signatory brands visit Pakistan
A delegation of the International Accord Secretariat and Accord signatory brands had a fruitful visit to Pakistan from 23 May to 3 June 2023.
The team attended a 3-day TEXPO hosted by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan and engaged with a range of stakeholders including manufacturers, buyers, and international delegates.
Additionally, the ILO organised an event titled Textile and Ready-Made Garment Industry Forum on 25 May, where Joris Oldenziel, Executive Director of the International Accord was among the panelists. During the event, he highlighted the significance of the Pakistan Accord as a potential contributor to improving compliance with health and safety standards within the Pakistani textile and garment industry. He added that the Pakistan Accord could contribute to increasing exports and provide opportunities to attract buyers exploring markets with adequately monitored workplace safety conditions.
On the sidelines of the ILO forum and TEXPO, the International Accord team and representatives of Kik, Aldi, and Otto also had formal and informal meetings with key stakeholders including suppliers, industry associations sourcing agents, government departments, academia, fire and safety services and safety experts to discuss various aspects of the Pakistan Accord.
The International Accord appreciates the openness and commitment among Pakistani stakeholders to improving workplace safety through national and international initiatives and are encouraged by the assurances of further engagements to implement the Pakistan Accord. The Accord Secretariat will continue engaging and further strengthening the partnership with Pakistani stakeholders to improve the understanding of the Pakistan Accord.
60 international brands and retailers representing over USD 2 billion in export value have now signed the Pakistan Accord. These brands source from over 500 suppliers in Pakistan.
The Secretariat appreciates the efforts of the Pakistani Government, industry, social sector, and stakeholders including the ILO and GIZ aimed at contributing to enhancing the country’s sustainability performance in the global textile and garment sector. A big thank you to all those who welcomed the team and extended their warm hospitality.
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