Kathmandu, August 25, 2025
A workshop titled “Labour Matters: Decent Work in Nepal's Garment and Textile Supply Chain in the Context of LDC Graduation” was held in Kathmandu on Friday, bringing attention to the challenges and opportunities facing Nepal’s garment sector as the country prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
The event was jointly organized by South Asia Watch on Trade, Economics and Environment (SAWTEE) and the Garment Association of Nepal (GAN), with support from the International Labour Organization (ILO). It formed part of a broader research and capacity-building initiative to examine how Nepal’s garment and textile supply chain can adapt to shifting trade dynamics while ensuring labour rights and decent working conditions.
The workshop gathered a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including garment and textile entrepreneurs, exporters’ associations, labour unions, government representatives, academics, and civil society organizations. Discussions focused on balancing competitiveness in global markets with fair labour standards, strengthening worker protections, and preparing Nepal’s export-oriented industries for the post-LDC graduation trade regime.
Speakers highlighted that while Nepal’s garment and textile industry remains one of the country’s largest employers and exporters, the sector faces rising compliance requirements from international buyers. Ensuring decent work, occupational safety, and fair wages will be critical not only for safeguarding workers’ rights but also for sustaining the sector’s global relevance.
Participants also stressed the need for collaborative approaches among industry leaders, policymakers, and worker representatives to build a more resilient and responsible garment supply chain that can thrive in the evolving international trade environment.
