Mr. Rana Alok Singh, Regional Director, South Asia, ETI, in his welcome address emphasized ETI’s global efforts in developing responsible sourcing policies in collaboration with international stakeholders. He highlighted the importance of fair purchasing practices in addressing challenges such as delayed payments, sudden order cancellations and ETI’s commitment to helping factories to understand and comply with these requirements. He expressed his appreciation to TEA for supporting this initiative.
Mr. V. Elangovan, Chairman, TSF and Vice President, TEA, in his keynote address congratulated the newly elected TEA Office Bearers and Executive Committee members for the next three years, who were elected unopposed. He emphasized TSF’s collaboration with ETI and their consistent efforts in conducting awareness programs. Addressing the current tough market conditions with the U.S., he encouraged exporters to explore and expand into the European market, despite its own set of challenges.
Mr. K.M. Subramanian, President, TEA, in his Presidential address, mentioned that TSF is a part of TEA and its a platform that brings together multiple stakeholders in Tiruppur including NGOs, government bodies, trade unions, trade associations all working toward workers’ welfare, environmental sustainability and ethical business practices. He stated that the key purpose of the day’s event is to understand that both the buyers and supplier rights and buyers have the right to inquire about our production and supply processes. Similarly, supplier also expecting fair practices especially in matters such as order cancellations and price reductions, where fairness must prevail.
Ms. Melissa Karadana, Purchasing Practice Programme Lead, ETI, presented a detailed overview of the issues discussed during the previous year, including supplier challenges and solutions. She explained how current purchasing practices impact workers, suppliers, and brands.
Ms. Margherita Parodi, Legal and Public Affairs Advisor, ETI, provided insights on ETI’s actions based on stakeholder feedback, the importance of human rights due diligence and key legislations that exporters must be aware of. Her presentation underscored why these legal requirements are increasingly critical for suppliers engaged in international trade.
Earlier chiefguests were felicitated by Mr. K.M. Subramanian, President, TEA, Mr. V. Elangovan, Chairman, TSF, Mr. N. Thirukkumaran, General Secretary, TEA and Mr. M. Anand, Executive Committee Member.
Mr. Rana Alok Singh in his vote of thanks expressed gratitude to all the stakeholders, especially TEA, for their commitment and support in driving ethical trade practices forward in Tiruppur.
