Fiji has hailed Australia and New Zealand's move of renewing the South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Co-operation Agreement (SPARTECA) Textile, Clothing and Footwear Provisions Scheme and extending it till December 31, 2014.
The scheme facilitates duty-free access of some specific textile, apparel and footwear items produced in Forum Island nations, including Fiji, to New Zealand and Australian markets, even if these nations do not satisfy all the requirements of SPARTECA under specific circumstances.
Fiji has welcomed the renewal of the SPARTECA scheme as it would greatly support the Fiji garment industry, which is vital for alleviating poverty levels and strengthening social equality in the country, as well as contribute to the country's GDP.
The garment industry in Fiji serves as a source of livelihood for several individuals, who are responsible for feeding their families. Almost 90 percent of those working in the industry are women, most of whom are sole bread earners.
The industry provides livelihood to around 18,500 people, 2,500 of whom are in direct employment.
Fibre2fashion News Desk - India
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