With the implementation of the Developing Country (DC) Preferences by the Australian Government from 1 January 2015, garments made in Fiji now have improved access to the Australian market.
The DC Preferences replaces the earlier South Pacific Regional Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement–Textile, Clothing and Footwear (SPARTECA-TFC) scheme, allowing greater flexibility for exporters to source their raw materials.
Terming this as a very positive development for the textile, clothing and footwear (TCF) industry, Fiji’s minister for industry, trade and tourism Fiyaz Siddiq Koya said, “The DC Preferences will provide Fijian exports more favourable terms of access into the Australian market than the previous SPARTECA-TFC, allowing for easier and simpler qualification requirements for duty free entry.”
Under the DC Preferences, Fijian exporters have greater flexibility to source raw materials from more efficient and cost effective sources, outside of Australia and the Pacific Region.
“The Fijian TCF exporters, for example, will now be able to procure textiles, including woollen materials, from developing countries such as China, Bangladesh, India, Thailand and Vietnam, and then convert these into finished garments for duty free export into Australia,” Koya explained.
“The Australian market accounts for 85 per cent of the total Fijian TCF exports, and there is potential for further expansion of exports and investment in the industry, with the new and more favourable market access conditions in 2015,” said the Minister.
The TCF industry is an integral contributor to the Fijian economy, providing employment to about 5,500 workers, majority of whom are women, and comprises a significant component of Fijian exports in the manufacturing sector.
With the support of the Government, the Fijian TCF industry is currently gearing up to manufacture high-end fashion garments that require faster and high quality production. (RKS)
