In line with its focus on labor studies, the Trade Union Advisor Initiative recently published a report on the reality of Egyptian labor within global supply chains – prepared by labor researcher Hassan Barbari – with a focus on the spinning, weaving, and ready-made garment sector, which is one of the most labor-intensive sectors and the most closely linked to the international marke
Through production and export networks linking Egyptian factories to dozens of global companies and brands, the report reveals how these factories have transformed into low-cost production bases serving global demand without providing the workers who operate them with even the most basic protection or fair wages.
The findings show that nearly 70% of workers in the sector are employed on temporary or seasonal contracts, and that more than half are not covered by social security. Furthermore, approximately 90% of factories lack genuine union committees and effective collective bargaining mechanisms, such as worker representatives. This leaves workers without a voice or protection against management decisions or international buyers.
