Fiji’s TCF sector struggles
Fiji’s textile, clothing and footwear (TCF) sector finding it difficult to fight the current economic downturn, with many of its Australian and New Zealand-based customers reducing or cancelling orders.
Facing a decline demand, low inventory levels and uncertainty regarding the future market, textile and clothing firms are struggling to keep businesses going. Many have had to introduce lay-offs, and others have had to cancel all new staff appointments, reduce employees’ working hours. According to reports, approximately 2,000 workers have seen their hours cut and up to 200 employees have lost their jobs altogether since February. Confidence is reportedly at a very low point.
According to manufacturers, incentives introduced in other textile, clothing and footwear producing nations, particularly in Asia, have made the problem even worse as competition is now more intense than ever. Other problems include high freight costs and inadequate communications systems.
The TCF Council of Fiji is now looking for ways to help its members and affiliated institutions in order to prevent further job losses as well as to increase profitability.
