United States

The U.S. Department of Labor says that there are over 168 million child laborers around the world, about 10% of the world’s total youth population. The findings were part of a new report titled “Findings on the Worst Forms of Child Labor,” which looked at data from over 140 countries around the world and noted that while significant improvements have been made, much more work needs to be done to help eradicate child labor. (Associated Press ) / (U.S. Department of Labor)

The Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) has issued a letter to the Alliance for Bangladesh Worker Safety praising them for an “impressive record of accomplishments in its first year of operation.” The letter, written by former senators and BPC officials Olympia Snowe and George Mitchell, gave special acknowledgement to the Alliance’s effort to provide compensation for workers displaced by factory closures as well as their efforts to provide funds for factory remediation efforts. (PR Web)

Several U.S. apparel brands and retailers are urging the government to reduce import tariffs on apparel and fashion, according to a recent survey by the U.S. Fashion Industry Association. The survey sought input from 29 retailers and brands, 85% of whom noted that they supported doing away with the rules of origin meant for apparel items. Respondents also noted that they felt that current Free Trade Agreements with the U.S. were being under utilized, even though they benefit business. (The Daily Star)

The World Bank says that the economy of the South Asia region will soon be the second fastest-growing economy in the world after East Asia. The bank says that the South Asian economy will expand by 6% next year and 6.4% in 2016. One of the biggest drivers of this change will be the Indian economy, which itself comprises about 80% of the regional output and is expected to grow by 6.4% in the next fiscal year. (Fibre2Fashion)