The number of jobs in our industry has declined dramatically over the last four years. With more than 70 000 jobs lost during that time, SACWTU has initiated a number of programmes to fight job losses.

At the core of the problem is devastating competition from other countries, especially China, where wages are lower, labour rights are much weaker and different kinds policies are used to keep costs artificially low. A second large challenge is for the South African industry to modernise, innovate and invest in the future. Thirdly the industry needs to promote itself and show South Africans that not only is keeping jobs in the country vital for the economy and social development, but South African manufacturers produce excellent, quality products and magnificent designs.

The following are the elements of the jobs campaign:

· The industry plans that combine competitiveness with fair labour standards
· Addressing the surge in imports: The China Quotas
· The Buy Local Campaign, our involvement with the Proudly South African and Label of Origin
· Interventions to save factories, reduce job losses and make the factories more competitive
· Promotion of design innovation and rebranding the industry through the Cape Town Fashion Festival and other work to incorporate   innovation in the production process,
· Representation to the Competition Commission in mergers and acquisitions
· Involvement with the SETAs and workplace skills promotion
· Working with trade policy and the global trade environment to ensure our industry is not negatively affected.