Brazil proposes national policy to support garment workers

A bill currently under analysis in the Brazilian Chamber of Deputies proposes the creation of a National Policy for the Valorization, Qualification, Formalization, and Productive Protection of Seamstresses, Tailors, and Garment Workers. Authored by Deputy Marcos Tavares (PDT-RJ), Bill 2987/26 aims to address issues of informality, low wages, and lack of social security protection.

The proposal seeks to prioritize vulnerable groups, including women, single mothers, Black individuals, people with disabilities, the elderly, and migrants. Key measures include the establishment of dedicated credit lines through federal public banks to assist micro-entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and small family businesses with equipment, raw materials, and technology.

Additionally, the bill outlines guidelines for public procurement, such as the purchase of school and hospital uniforms, by encouraging participation from small businesses and cooperatives. The textile and garment sector, which moved R$ 203.9 billion in 2023, remains a significant employer in the country.