STAR Network urges retailers to show responsible purchasing practices

Desk Report: Members of the STAR Network (Sustainable Textile of Asian Region) textile and garment business associations from six producing and export countries urged brand companies, retailers and traders of the global textile and apparel supply chains to consider all potential impacts on workers, small businesses in the supply chain when making purchasing decisions.

Members of the STAR Network textile and garment business associations from six producing and export countries – 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), Vietnam Textile and Garment Association (VITAS) – called to show responsible purchasing practices.

As it will bring enormous impacts on the fundamental rights of millions of workers and the livelihood of their families in the supplier end amidst the COVID-19 global pandemic.

STAR Network textile and garment business associations call on the brands to:

1. Carefully consider all potential impacts on workers, small businesses in the supply chain when taking significant purchasing decisions
2. Honor the terms of purchasing contracts, fulfill obligations therein, and not re-negotiate price or payment terms
3. Take delivery or shipment, and proceed with payment as agreed upon for goods already produced and currently in production with materials ready, and not cancel orders which are already in production
4. Offer fair compensation to suppliers (100% FOB) if production or delivery has to be suspended or stopped, or offer salaries directly to workers of suppliers
5. Put no responsibility on suppliers for delay of delivery or shipment and claim no compensation for such delays
6. Put no further improper pressure on suppliers by additional costs, rush orders or unnecessary visits and audits
7. Make all efforts and engage with local stakeholders for a better understanding of the local situation and contexts
8. Always resort to dialogue and collaborative settlement to ensure mutually acceptable solutions to disputes
9. Support business partners on the supply chain as much as possible, and aim at the long-term strategy of business continuity, supply chain unity and social sustainability.

The STAR Network appreciated the understanding, collaboration and support of our business partners and other stakeholders. And they ready to work and walk with all responsible buyers globally to get through this crisis, towards a shared bright future.