The report by ADPP Mozambique reveals that the second-hand clothing industry is vital for Mozambique’s economy, supporting over 200,000 jobs, providing basic clothing for 85% of the population, and contributing $35 million in taxes. Amidst high unemployment and poverty, the SHC industry is deemed essential for livelihoods and public services. The report encourages informed policy debates on environmental sustainability without detriment to this sector.
A recent report by Consulting For Africa and Abalon Capital, commissioned by ADPP Mozambique, highlights the crucial role of the second-hand clothing (SHC) industry in Mozambique. This sector supports over 200,000 jobs, directly aiding approximately 1 million individuals. Established vendors earn an average of $650 monthly, significantly higher than the national minimum wage of $90. Moreover, the industry fulfills the basic clothing needs of 85% of Mozambique’s population and contributes around $35 million in taxes for essential public services such as education and healthcare.
Ranked 183rd out of 191 countries on the United Nations Human Development Index, Mozambique faces significant economic challenges, including a 25% unemployment rate. The findings of this report underscore how vital the SHC industry is to the livelihoods of many individuals and how any disruption could have dire consequences on an already impoverished population. The report titled “Current Status of Mozambique’s Second-Hand Clothing Market: Opportunities and Challenges” explores the global implications of the SHC trade beyond environmental concerns.
Brian Mangwiro from Abalon Capital remarked on the interconnectedness of millions of livelihoods with the SHC sector, emphasizing the necessity for a balanced dialogue among policymakers regarding economic sustainability and environmental priorities. He noted that informed debates must consider the context of developing countries, and the significant role the SHC sector plays in their economies.
Former Prime Minister Luisa Diogo praised the report, stating, “This sector isn’t merely about clothing; it is a source of dignity and opportunity.” She further asserted the importance of the SHC trade as a contributor to tax revenue that funds essential services and promotes economic diversity crucial for growth in Mozambique and the entire African continent.
The report challenges the misconception of SHC dumping, highlighting cultural practices in Mozambique that prioritize clothing reuse. The SHC industry supports marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, by providing job opportunities and skill development. Restricting SHC imports may inadvertently favor large exporters, like China, which dominate the fast fashion market. The report calls for informed discussions on climate change and waste management to ensure the sustainability of the SHC sector.
In conclusion, the second-hand clothing industry is a lifeline for millions in Mozambique, providing essential employment and fulfilling basic clothing needs for the majority of the population. The report highlights the need for balanced policy discussions that consider the economic realities of the Global South. Recognizing the SHC sector’s value is essential for achieving sustainable development and poverty reduction in Mozambique and across Africa.
Original Source: www.prnewswire.com
