United States

The U.S. government has partnered with 3 other countries and the International Labor Organization (ILO) for the Initiative to Promote Fundamental Labor Rights and Practices in Myanmar. The initiative will help to modernize Myanmar’s labor code, improve compliance with global ethical standards, and foster a robust dialogue between government, business, and labor groups. A stakeholder forum is planned for next year to receive input on the new initiative. (WhiteHouse.gov / ) (Irrawaddy)

The Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA) recently named 8 global footwear factories as Recognized Responsible Footwear Manufacturers. The FDRA’s Responsible Factory Program aims to increase social compliance among footwear production facilities around the world and evaluates facilities against their Code of Conduct. The presentation was made at a recent FDRA event in Dongguan, China. (FDRA)

The National Council of Textile Organization (NCTO) is pushing Congress to pass the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill (MTB) which would boost U.S. manufacturing, exports, and employment. The MTB would temporarily suspend or reduce duties on manufacturing inputs that are not sourced from the U.S. to help American businesses become more competitive globally. The last version of the MTB expired in 2012. (Textile World)