ETI and AAFA extend collective support to Sri Lankan apparel sector

• JAAF welcomes the move as it complements and enhances worker welfare measures already taken by the industry
• Says it demonstrates international brands commitment to Sri Lanka as a long-term sustainable partner

As Sri Lanka struggles under the weight of the ongoing economic crisis with power outages, shortages and price increases of essentials, the Joint Apparel Association Forum yesterday welcomed the call to action by the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) and the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) to support apparel sector’s efforts towards ensuring worker welfare.     

ETI has commenced a collective response by engaging with economists, industry associations, worker representatives, and member companies operating in Sri Lanka to better understand the implications of the ongoing crisis on workers, suppliers, and the industry at large. 

Distribution of dry rations, medicines, groceries, and cooked food has been taken as an initial step in support. Additionally, AAFA has pledged a commitment to work with suppliers ensuring timely payments and adherence to the law. The livelihoods and welfare of workers remain a top priority of the industry. JAAF welcomes this collective support as it will enhance and compliment worker welfare measures already taken by the industry during these
unprecedented times. 

Welfare schemes by some factories have been in operation for the distribution of dry rations, with certain factories providing additional meals to employees to take home to feed their families. Provision of schoolbooks for children, free medical facilities, and special food packages for pregnant women have also been made available for employees in the SME sector.
As reiterated by the Secretary General of JAAF Yohan Lawrence, “Factories are encouraged to implement welfare measures to best suit the requirements of their workers.

As of June 2022, around 80 percent of apparel manufacturers have made cost of living adjustments to salaries over and above the annual increments. In some instances, these represent increases of 25 percent from 2021.”
This initiative by representatives of the international brands sourcing from Sri Lanka shows the deep relationship that brands have with their supplier partners in Sri Lanka built over a number of years.