A recent study highlights the importance of the second-hand clothing sector in Mozambique, emphasizing its role in creating over 200,000 jobs and supporting one million people. The sector provides substantial income to sellers, fulfills basic clothing needs for a majority of the population, and contributes significant tax revenues. The findings call for a balanced approach to local textile production and second-hand clothing imports to foster sustainable economic growth.
The second-hand clothing sector in Mozambique significantly contributes to the economy, providing over 200,000 formal and informal jobs and supporting approximately one million people. This assertion stems from a comprehensive study conducted by Consulting For Africa and Abalon Capital Limitada, commissioned by ADPP Mozambique. The report illustrates that the industry is vital to the country’s economic landscape, offering a sustainable livelihood and facilitating economic development.
The analysis indicates that established sellers earn an average of $650 per month, starkly contrasting with the national minimum wage of $90. Moreover, the industry fulfills the basic clothing needs of at least 80% of the population and contributes approximately $35 million annually in import taxes for these garments. The study reveals that urban markets predominantly feature women and youth as principal sellers of second-hand clothing, alongside food sales, marking it as a cornerstone activity.
The report further details that Mozambique imported around 36,750 tonnes of second-hand clothes annually over the past five years, with a 3.5% increase in demand last year. Each tonne of clothing imports purportedly supports about 7.8 jobs. This sector offers inexpensive, varied clothing essential for millions living in poverty, underscoring its pivotal role in Mozambique, a nation ranked as one of the poorest worldwide with a high unemployment rate.
It is important to note that any disruption to this sector could severely impact a population already facing significant challenges. The report stresses the complexity of revitalizing Africa’s textile sector and emphasizes the need for increased local production and a competitive edge in garment manufacturing against nations such as China and India.
Conclusively, the findings advocate for a collaborative approach, viewing the second-hand clothing trade and local textile industries as complementary rather than adversarial. The report emphasizes that second-hand clothing will likely remain the primary source of affordable apparel in Mozambique, recommending that African nations pursue pragmatic solutions through strategic collaborations to enhance competitive advantages in the garment sector. Furthermore, ADPP Mozambique, the organization behind this study, has been enhancing quality education, health, and sustainable agriculture initiatives since 1982, employing approximately 3,300 individuals and benefiting millions annually.
In conclusion, the second-hand clothing industry in Mozambique is a crucial pillar for economic stability and job creation, employing over 200,000 individuals and providing essential clothing to a significant part of the population. The findings underscore the need for collaborative strategies to bolster the local textile market while recognizing the indispensable role that second-hand imports play in the country’s socio-economic fabric. Investment and strategic partnerships are vital for enhancing competitive advantages and addressing the challenges facing the garment sector in Mozambique.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
