Rug bear: child labor jeopardizes Pakistan's EU tariff perks

Article Abstract:

Foes of child labor are pressing the European Union to drop Pakistan from its Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), raising tariffs either for carpets or for all Pakistani exports. The Intl Confederation of Free Trade Unions, the European Trade Union Confederation, and the Intl Textile, Garment & Leather Workers' Federation are behind the move. Some 6 million children in Pakistan labor in the carpet, shoe, power-looms, and sport-goods industries. Half of Pakistan's $1.8 billion in EU exports now receive GSP benefits.

Author: Islam, Shada
Carpets & Rugs, Carpet and Rug Mills, Pakistan, Rugs and carpets, International Textile, Garment and Leather Workers' Federation

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If it's broke, fix it; new code of conduct will help regulate toy industry

Article Abstract:

The world's leading toy makers met in Sao Paolo, Brazil in May 1996 to adopt a code of conduct to help salvage their deteriorating reputation among consumers. The industry adopted a code to provide safe, healthy, fair and legal working conditions to their employees. Most toy production is carried out in Asia for European, North American or Japanese companies. Labor and other groups have been calling for a code since a fire in a Thai toy factory killed 188 workers in May 1993.

Author: Islam, Shada
Social aspects, Social policy, Asia, Toy industry

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A friend in need: the EC expands aid to Vietnam

Article Abstract:

The EC is expanding its trade relations with Vietnam in a bidto assist in the communist country's introduction of a market economy. Both parties are planning to sign an agreement that would boost European aid and help promote EC investment in the developing country. However, the EC wants Hanoi to promote human rights and democracy in exchange for the economic and political assistance.

Author: Islam, Shada
Analysis, Foreign economic assistance, Vietnam, International economic relations

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Subjects list: Children, Employment, International relations, Child labor, European Economic Community
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