Tariffs still suit shrinking textile sector

The issues that this article deals with are those related to the textile, clothing and footwear industry. The main point raised is that of an assistance package, which the cabinet is due to approve by November. Another issue raised is the effect that the proposed tariff reductions will have on the business and the amount of employees within this sector.

In the article Paul Moore, CEO of Pacific Brands, states “Lower tariffs will mean job cuts…we have done enough restructuring…we prefer to make our products here, but if they force us overseas, then we’ll go.” The Australian industry is worried about the tariffs as it will make the goods coming into Australia cheaper which may also lead to consumers buying overseas products rather than those made in Australia. However, is a positive move as it will make Australia more competitive within the TCF industry. It is hard to compete with labour intensive countries such as those within Asia as they have an extremely labou...