More Filipino manufacturers and exporters should make their operations socially compliant which is important as they expand in the local and international markets.
“Social compliance is now a global standard, and a responsibility both by the exporter and the importer… Today, it is a fundamental consideration when evaluating a factory’s ability to compete in the international market,” said Robert Young, trustee for the textile, yarn and fabric sector of the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) and president of the Foreign Buyers Association of the Philippines.
Young said social compliance refers to factories that maintain lawful, safe, and respectful working conditions and have no negative impact to the environment.
He cited as an example the pollution of water and air due to the indiscriminate disposal of waste materials, operating a factory where human rights are respected and workers are paid fairly, and where their safety and health are not put at risk.
As Filipino entrepreneurs export to the United States, Asia, Europe and other parts of the world, Young said foreign buyers are more concerned about maintaining the integrity and reputation of their company and brand.
He added that businesses dealing with several importing countries can be audited multiple times even if the standards are similar. – Press release
April 24, 2024
