Tuesday, January 27, 2009

PREVIEW IN DAEGU 2009 (PID 2009) --Korea (RoK)

PREVIEW IN DAEGU 2009 (PID 2009) --Korea (RoK)
(Synthetic Fiber & Fabric – International Textile Fair)
(Free - - Accommodation; Airport Transfers; Local Transport; Interpretation & City Tour)
11 -13 March, 2009

Kotra (Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency) which is a trade office of Embassy of the Republic of Korea and sponsored by Korean Ministry of Knowledge Economy is organizing a Trade Mission of Buyers / Importers and Exhibitors during Preview in Daegu (PID 2009) at Korea scheduled on 11-13 March, 2009.

[ A ] INCENTIVES / SUBSIDIES by Korean Government:

Exhibitors:
20% Discount on booth (Reimbursement) + 10% Discount more,
if you participated in the past PID
Free Accommodation for 3 nights at deluxe-grade hotel in Daegu (Twin bed room) - - two representatives can attend from One company & share a room +
Free Interpretation service to overseas visitors
Free Shuttle bus service for Airport Transfers and Local Transportations from Hotel to Exhibition center / meeting place

Buyers/ Importers:
Free Accommodation for 2 nights (Twin bed room) - - two representatives may attend from One company & share a room
Free Shuttle bus service for Airport Transfers and Local Transportation from Hotel to Exhibition center / meeting place
Free Interpretation service to overseas visitors
Free City Tour on request only - - Overseas Visitors (except entrance fee to specific place)
Business Center - - Free Service of faxes copiers and internet.

.......................................

[ B ] WHY TO PARTICPATE IN PID 2009

· PID 2009 is the manufacturer-based new textile & technology exhibition which provides the buyers with satisfactory price and quality.
· PID 2009 is the professional business exhibition which predicts International fabric trends and present new textile developments.
· Daegu is having world’s largest synthetic fiber producing plant.
· This exhibition has been held annually since the year 2002.
· Korea is possessing 32.5% of the world’s synthetic fiber market (China 9.4%) and Daegu is holding over 80% of the domestic chemical fiber market and holding 33% of Korea’s fabric manufactures.
· Preview in DAEGU presents the new textile materials correspondence to world wide Spring/ Summer fashion trend every year, and also provides an exceptional chance for both exhibitors and buyers to have closer relationship.

Achievements of last year’s PID 2008 / Facts & Figures of PID 2008 - - http://www.previewin.com/2009/english/overview/03.htm



[ C ] SHOW PROFILE:

Date : March 11 (Wed) - 13 (Fri), 2009/ 3 days
Venue : Daegu Exhibition & Convention Center (EXCO), Daegu, Korea
Hours : 10:00AM – 6:00PM (till 5:00PM on Friday, 13th)
Host : Daegu Metropolitan City, Gyeongsangbuk-do
KOFOTI (Korea Federation of Textile Industries)
Organizers : Kotra (Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency)
: DGTIA (Daegu - Gyeongbuk Textile Industries Association)


For more information about PID 2009, please visit,
http://www.previewin.com/2009/english/main/main.htm



[ D ] EXHIBIT ITEMS:
Textiles
Home Textiles
Fiber/Yarn
Fabrics
Manmade
Wool
Fancy / Finishing
Linings
Cotton
Linen/Ramie
Dying/Coating
Rayon
Lingerie/Swimwear, etc.
Accessories
Fashion Trends
CAD/CAM/CIM
e-business
Functional Fabrics
Embroidery/lace
Design/Styling
Publisher

[ E ] DEADLINES:
Exhibitors : 13th February, 2009 (payment to be made)Buyers : 26th February, 2009

Kotra Mumbai office will assist you in obtaining visa by issuing VISA RECOMMENDATION LETTER.
Contact Details :
Bhavin G. Kadakia
Senior Manager – Trade & Investment
Ms. Karen (91-22-6631 5416; 6615 8000) or
Ms. Priti (91-22-6631 5415)
___________________________________________________________________
Kotra - Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency
Korea Business Center
(Trade Office, Embassy of the Republic of Korea)
Sponsored by Ministry of Knowledge Economy of Republic of Korea
Maker Chamber- VI, 9th Floor, Office No. 93, Nariman Point, Mumbai- 400 021, India.
Direct : 91-22-6615 7505 Board : 91-22-6631 8000
Fax : 91-22-6631 8780 Mobile : 91-98191 40102
E-mail : bhavin@kotra.or.kr Personal : bhavingkadakia@yahoo.co.in
Web site : http://english.kotra.or.kr/, http://www.kotra.in/

Saturday, January 24, 2009

The Indian Banks' Association (IBA)

The Indian Banks' Association (IBA) was formed on the 26th September 1946 with 22 members. As on July 2008 IBA has 150 members .

Objectives :
To promote and develop in India sound and progressive banking principles, practices and conventions and to contribute to the developments of creative banking.
To render assistance and to provide various common services to Members and to the banking industry.
To develop and implement new ideas and innovations in banking services, operations and procedures.
To organize co-ordination and co-operation on procedural, legal, technical, administrative or professional problems and practices of banks and the banking industry.
To initiate advance planning for introduction of new systems or services in the banking industry.
To collect, classify and circulate statistical and other information on the structure and working of the banking system.
To act as a clearing house for dissemination and exchange of statistical data, information, views and opinions on the systems, procedures and practices, and organization and methods of banks and on the structure, working and operations of the banking system.
To explore, plan, co-ordinate and organize detailed surveys on banking, business, resources, personnel and management development programmes of banks and the banking industry.
To pool together talents and resources available with members and to organize exchange of expertise and experiences of members for simplifying forms and procedures, for reducing cost of operations, for increasing efficiency and productivity and for such other common purposes as may be necessary or relevant to banks and the banking industry.
To organize exchange of credit information and opinions, export information or information and views on any other aspects of interest to banks or the banking industry.
To promote education and knowledge of the law and practice of banking.
To issue periodical newsletters, bulletins or magazines and publish books, pamphlets or other literature on matters of interest to members and to the banking industry.
To project a good public image of banking as a service industry and develop good public relations.
To promote harmonious personnel relations in banking industry and to devise ways and means for involving banking personnel in the endeavours of banks for growth and development of banking and the economy of the country.
To organize, promote and afford facilities for indoor and outdoor games, any form of sports, recreation, sports competitions, events, cultural activities, social activities, fine arts, social meetings, entertainments and to organize meetings for the above purposes and to provide for purposes by purchasing, acquiring, taking on lease, own, hire or otherwise playing fields, grounds, buildings, pavilions and other facilities.
To give financial assistance to individuals or bodies, from out of its own funds, or by collection from its members, or from any other source, and for the purpose of such collection, to accept grants, donations, etc. in cash or kind from Government, its members, other organizations, members of the public, etc. and to collect subscriptions, membership and other fees and to levy fees or charges for the use of the facilities and to raise funds in any manner to strengthen the financial position of the Association, from time to time, for the purpose of providing education, training and facilities for imparting basic, advance knowledge and techniques in games, sports, cultural activities, social activities, fine arts, etc. and to give donations, technical and other assistance, sports equipments, sports facilities and expert guidance to organizers for this purpose whether its members or not and to conduct, organize, participate or to associate itself in State-Level, Nation, International Tournaments and competitions pertaining to sports, cultural activities, social activities, fine arts, etc., held in or outside India.
To found, establish, develop and finance a separate body for the promotion of objects contained in Clauses n, nn, nnn, and generally, and to register it as a Society and/or Public Trust, or a Company under the provisions or relevant Acts, as the case may be.
To maintain continuous communications with the representatives of bank employees, to conduct talks, discussions, and negotiations with them and to arrive at Settlements.
To provide assistance and guidance to members in interpretation and implementation of Awards, Settlements, etc.
To assist, advise and guide all members and the smaller members in particular on all their needs, difficulties and problems of growth, development and working.
To act as an agent or a representative of a member or members in respect of matters connected with any of their operations working or administration.
To maintain close co-ordination and liaison with Reserve Bank of India, All Financial Institutions, Chambers of Commerce, Organisations of Banking Industry, Management or Educational Institutes, Universities and such other Organisations for realizing the subject and purposes of the Association.
Generally to do all and any other thing that may be necessary or relevant for the realization of the objects and purposes of the Association directly or indirectly.
To carry on publicity for the purpose of educating public opinion with regard to the scope, importance and activities of the banking industry, for creative growth and development.
To do all and such other things as are incidental or conductive to the attainment of any or all of the above objects.

Contact Details :
Indian Banks' Association
World Trade Centre,
6th Floor
Centre 1 Building,
World Trade Centre Complex,
Cuff Parade,Mumbai - 400 005
http://www.iba.org.in

Source / Courtsy : IBA

Foreign Exchange Dealer's Association of India (FEDAI)

Foreign Exchange Dealer's Association of India (FEDAI) was set up in 1958 as an Association of banks dealing in foreign exchange in India (typically called Authorised Dealers - ADs) as a self regulatory body and is incorporated under Section 25 of The Companies Act, 1956. It's major activities include framing of rules governing the conduct of inter-bank foreign exchange business among banks vis-à-vis public and liaison with RBI for reforms and development of forex market.

Presently some of the functions are as follows:
Guidelines and Rules for Forex Business.
Training of Bank Personnel in the areas of Foreign Exchange Business.
Accreditation of Forex Brokers
Advising/Assisting member banks in settling issues/matters in their dealings.
Represent member banks on Government/Reserve Bank of India/Other Bodies.
Announcement of daily and periodical rates to member banks.

Due to continuing integration of the global financial markets and increased pace of de-regulation, the role of self-regulatory organizations like FEDAI has also transformed. In such an environment, FEDAI plays a catalytic role for smooth functioning of the markets through closer co-ordination with the RBI, other organizations like FIMMDA, the Forex Association of India and various market participants. FEDAI also maximizes the benefits derived from synergies of member banks through innovation in areas like new customized products, bench marking against international standards on accounting, market practices, risk management systems, etc.,

Contact Details :
Foreign Exchange Dealers Association of India
17th Floor, Maker Tower 'F',
Cuffe ParadeMumbai - 400 005. INDIA
Phone : Chief Executive : +91 22 22182583
Secretary : +91 22 22184200
General : +91 22 22184432 / 22182549
Fax : +91 22 22189946
e-mail : mail@fedai.org.in
Website : www.fedai.org.in
Source / Courtsy : FEDAI

Thursday, January 15, 2009

The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) :

The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) was set up in 1963 by the Government of India as an autonomous organisation to help professionalise the country's foreign trade management and increase exports by developing human resources; generating, analysing and disseminating data; and conducting research. Today it is one of India's most prestigious business schools.

Contact Details :

IIFT Bhawan, B-21, Qutab Institutional AreaNew DelhiTelephone :
+91-11-26965124+91-11-26965051 Fax+91-1126853956, Website : www.iift.edu

Source / Courtsy : IIFT

ICC's New Rules on Documentary Credits.

ICC's publication of the 2007 Revision of Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits, UCP 600, (ICC Publication No. 600) is now available.

ICC's new rules on documentary credits, which are used for letter of credit transactions worldwide, were approved by the ICC Commission on Banking Technique and Practice on 25 October 2006. UCP 600 is the first revision of the rules since 1993 and represents more than three years of work by the commission. The implementation date is 1 July 2007.
UCP 600 contains significant changes to the existing rules, including:
A reduction in the number of articles from 49 to 39;

New articles on "Definitions" and "Interpretations" providing more clarity and precision in the rules;

A definitive description of negotiation as "purchase" of drafts of documents;
The replacement of the phrase "reasonable time" for acceptance or refusalof documents by a maximum period of five banking days.

UCP 600 also includes the 12 Articles of the eUCP, ICC's supplement to the UCP governing presentation of documents in electronic or part-electronic form.

UCP 600 is available in two convenient formats:
Book - 72 pages (ICC Publication No. 600)
Price: Rs. 1470 per copy

Leaflet (pictured left) - 8 page, fold-out Leaflet,
sold in sets of 25 Leaflets(ICC Publication No. 600LF).
Price: Rs. 8800 per set of 25 leaflet.

ICC - INDIA - Contact details :
The Executive Director
International Chamber of Commerce Federation
House Tansen Marg New Delhi - 110 001 INDIA
Phone : 91-11-23738760-70 (11 lines)

Fax : +91-11-23320714, 23721504
Email :iccindia@iccindiaonline.org
Source / Courtsy : ICC - India
ICC - International Chamber of Commerce

The ICC's origins :
The International Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1919 with an overriding aim that remains unchanged: to serve world business by promoting trade and investment, open markets for goods and services, and the free flow of capital.

Much of ICC's initial impetus came from its first president, Etienne Clémentel, a former French minister of commerce. Under his influence, the organization's international secretariat was established in Paris and he was instrumental in creating the ICC International Court of Arbitration in 1923.

ICC has evolved beyond recognition since those early post-war days when business leaders from the allied nations met for the first time in Atlantic City. The original nucleus, representing the private sectors of Belgium, Britain, France, Italy and the United States, has expanded to become a world business organization with thousands of member companies and associations in around 130 countries. Members include many of the world's most influential companies and represent every major industrial and service sector.

The voice of international business
Traditionally, ICC has acted on behalf of business in making representations to governments and intergovernmental organizations. Three prominent ICC members served on the Dawes Commission which forged the international treaty on war reparations in 1924, seen as a breakthrough in international relations at the time.

A year after the creation of the United Nations in San Francisco in 1945, ICC was granted the highest level consultative status with the UN and its specialized agencies. Ever since, it has ensured that the international business view receives due weight within the UN system and before intergovernmental bodies and meetings such as the G8 where decisions affecting the conduct of business are made.

Defender of the multilateral trading system
ICC's reach - and the complexity of its work - have kept pace with the globalization of business and technology. In the 1920s ICC focused on reparations and war debts. A decade later, it struggled vainly through the years of depression to hold back the tide of protectionism and economic nationalism. After war came in 1939, ICC assured continuity by transferring its operations to neutral Sweden.

In the post-war years, ICC remained a diligent defender of the open multilateral trading system. As membership grew to include more and more countries of the developing world, the organization stepped up demands for the opening of world markets to the products of developing countries. ICC continues to argue that trade is better than aid.
In the 1980s and the early 1990s, ICC resisted the resurgence of protectionism in new guises such as reciprocal trading arrangements, voluntary export restraints and curbs introduced under the euphemism of "managed trade".

Challenges of the 21st Century
After the disintegration of communism in eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, ICC faced fresh challenges as the free market system won wider acceptance than ever before, and countries that had hitherto relied on state intervention switched to privatization and economic liberalization. As the world enters the 21st century, ICC is building a stronger presence in Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and the emerging economies of eastern and central Europe.Today, 16 ICC commissions of experts from the private sector cover every specialized field of concern to international business. Subjects range from banking techniques to financial services and taxation, from competition law to intellectual property rights, telecommunications and information technology, from air and maritime transport to international investment regimes and trade policy.

Self-regulation is a common thread running through the work of the commissions. The conviction that business operates most effectively with a minimum of government intervention inspired ICC's voluntary codes. Marketing codes cover sponsoring, advertising practice, sales promotion, marketing and social research, direct sales practice, and marketing on the Internet. Launched in 1991, ICC's Business Charter for Sustainable Development provides 16 principles for good environmental conduct that have been endorsed by more than 2300 companies and business associations.

Practical services to business
ICC keeps in touch with members all over the world through its conferences and biennial congresses - in 2004 the world congress was held in Marrakesh. As a member-driven organization, with national committees in 84 countries, it has adapted its structures to meet the changing needs of business. Many of them are practical services, like the ICC International Court of Arbitration, which is the longest established ICC institution. The Court is the world's leading body for resolving international commercial disputes by arbitration. In 2004 561 Requests for Arbitration were filed with the ICC Court, concerning 1 682 parties from 116 different countries and independent territories.

The first Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits came out in 1933 and the latest version, UCP 500, came into effect in January 1994. These rules are used by banks throughout the world. A supplement to UCP 500, called the eUCP, was added in 2002 to deal with the presentation of all electronic or part electronic documents. In 1936, the first nine Incoterms were published, providing standard definitions of universally employed terms like Ex quay, CIF and FOB, and whenever necessary they are revised. Incoterms 2000 came into force on 1 January 2000.In 1951 the International Bureau of Chambers of Commerce (IBCC) was created. It quickly became a focal point for cooperation between chambers of commerce in developing and industrial countries, and took on added importance as chambers of commerce of transition economies responded to the stimulus of the market economy. In 2001, on the occasion of the 2nd World Chambers Congress in Korea, IBCC was renamed the World Chambers Federation (WCF), clarifying WCF as the world business organization's department for chamber of commerce affairs. WCF also administers the ATA Carnet system for temporary duty-free imports, a service delivered by chambers of commerce, which started in 1958 and is now operating in over 57 countries.Another ICC service, the Institute for World Business Law was created in 1979 to study legal issues relating to international business. At the Cannes film festival every year, the Institute holds a conference on audiovisual law.

The fight against commercial crime
In the early 1980s, ICC set up three London-based services to combat commercial crime: the International Maritime Bureau, dealing with all types of maritime crime; the Counterfeiting Intelligence Bureau; and the Financial Investigation Bureau. A cybercrime unit was added in 1998. An umbrella organization, ICC Commercial Crime Services, coordinates the activities of the specialized anti-crime services.

All these activities fulfil the pledge made in a key article of the ICC's constitution: "to assure effective and consistent action in the economic and legal fields in order to contribute to the harmonious growth and the freedom of international commerce".

Source / Courtsy : ICC

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

GTE : Garment Technology Expo :

Name and Venue of the Exhibition:

Garment Technology Expo -2009 International,
NSIC Exhibition Ground, Okhla, New Delhi, India.

Product Profile:

CAD / CAM, Sewing, Knitting, Embroidery,
Dyes & Chemicals, Quilting, Fusing,
Laundry, Fabrics, Fancy Yarn,
Finishing Equipment, Dyeing,
Cutting Printing & Packaging,
Software Solutions, Spreading,
Spares & Attachments, Accessories & Trims,
Testing Equipment, Support Services,
HR Agencies, Trade Publications.


Contact Information

Garment Technology Expo Pvt. Ltd. F-36, Kalkaji Main, New Delhi-110019, IndiaTel: 011-41601662, 41601663
Fax: 91-11-41600833Email:

info@garmenttechnologyexpo.com

garmentech@airtelmail.in

Opening and Closing Dates of the Exhibition:

Opening- 16th January 2009Closing- 19th January 2009

Hours of Exhibition: Exhibitors:

10:00 a.m. to 07:30 p.m. Visitors: 11:00 a.m. to 07:00 p.m.


What is REACH ?

REACH is a new European Community Regulation on chemicals and their safe use (EC 1907/2006). It deals with the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical substances. The new law entered into force on 1 June 2007.

The aim of REACH is to improve the protection of human health and the environment through the better and earlier identification of the intrinsic properties of chemical substances. At the same time, innovative capability and competitiveness of the EU chemicals industry should be enhanced. The benefits of the REACH system will come gradually, as more and more substances are phased into REACH.

The REACH Regulation gives greater responsibility to industry to manage the risks from chemicals and to provide safety information on the substances. Manufacturers and importers will be required to gather information on the properties of their chemical substances, which will allow their safe handling, and to register the information in a central database run by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) in Helsinki. The Agency will act as the central point in the REACH system: it will manage the databases necessary to operate the system, co-ordinate the in-depth evaluation of suspicious chemicals and run a public database in which consumers and professionals can find hazard information.

The Regulation also calls for the progressive substitution of the most dangerous chemicals when suitable alternatives have been identified.

REACH has been developed in a climate of transparency and consultation. The Commission has held extensive dialogue with stakeholders before and after the proposal was presented.

Stakeholders sent over 6000 responses during the REACH internet consultation and contributed to the REACH Impact Assessment both before and after the launch of the Commission REACH proposal in 2003. This helped the Commission to improve the design and cost-effectiveness of the system and subsequently the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union to amend the proposal under the co-decision procedure.

REACH provisions will be phased-in over 11 years. Companies can find explanations of REACH in the guidance documents and can address themselves to a number of helpdesks.

For further details : scroll down....
REACH in Brief :
http://ec.europa.eu/environment/chemicals/reach/pdf/2007_02_reach_in_brief.pdf
REACH ME :
http://ec.europa.eu/environment/chemicals/reach/pdf/reach_me_flyer_en.pdf
REACH - FAQ :
http://www.helpdesk-reach.it/files/FAQ-Giugno2008.pdf

Source / Courtsy : ec-europa

Monday, January 12, 2009

BSCI - Business Social Compliance Intitative :

Background :
In the context of globalisation and international competition, companies have outsourced the production of labour intensive goods to developing and newly industrialised countries, especially in Asia.

The working conditions in these sourcing countries are often poor. While labour laws and policies exist, national governments tend to be lenient when it comes to enforcement. Companies which source from these countries risk damaging their reputation, especially as consumers increasingly care about the working conditions under which the goods they buy are produced.
Improving social standards in the producing countries supplying companies in industrialised nations has therefore become a very important topic on many companies' agendas.

The creation of the BSCI :
To improve social compliance in the supply chain, companies and associations from the retail and industrial sector have created individual Codes of Conduct and monitoring systems. While such efforts have brought some improvement to the situation of workers, the mushrooming of individual approaches has led to inefficiency and high costs for retail companies and suppliers as a consequence of factories being audited several times based on various Codes and auditing procedures.

To create consistency and harmonisation, the Brussels based Foreign Trade Association (FTA) began in 2002 to establish a common platform for the various European companies Codes of Conducts and monitoring systems and to lay the groundwork for a common European monitoring system for social compliance. In 2002 and 2003, retail companies and associations held several workshops to determine the framework for such a system. In March 2003 the FTA formally founded the Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI). The experience and the know-how gained by companies and associations from their monitoring systems were cornerstones for the development of the approach and management instruments of the BSCI. In the spring of 2004 the development phase was achieved and since then the system has been implemented worldwide.

Objectives of BSCI :
The ultimate goal of the BSCI is to improve the working conditions in the global supply chain worldwide.

This goal can only be achieved through a strong commitment to implement the system. That is why the BSCI requires its members to accept the BSCI Code of Conduct and implement it in their supply chain. The BSCI members also commit themselves to involve at least 2/3 of their buying volume or number of direct suppliers of goods into the BSCI system within 3½ years after joining the initiative.

This commitment covers those countries that are important sourcing markets and which have been defined by the BSCI as risk countries with regard to social compliance criteria. BSCI members are free on an individual basis to implement the BSCI process anywhere beyond this scope.

The BSCI recognises the difficulties suppliers face in meeting labour standards requirements within the intense competitive climate in which they operate. BSCI aim at a stepwise implementation of the BSCI requirements stipulated in BSCI Code of ConductCode of Conduct. BSCI do not insist that our members cease commercial relations with suppliers who are not respecting social requirements. BSCI advocate a development oriented approach through which BSCI help suppliers to implement social requirements progressively. To find sustainable solutions to the problems, and support suppliers with training and capacity building activities.
Those suppliers who meet all BSCI requirements are encouraged to go further and comply with BSCI best practice, the SA8000 social management system and certification developed by Social Accountability International (SAI).


The BSCI Code
The BSCI Code of Conduct is based on the most important international Conventions protecting the workers’ rights such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions and other important Declarations of the United Nations, the OECD guidelines for multinational enterprises and the UN Global Compact.

BSCI Code includes the ten following key elements to improve the worker´s situation:
1) freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining
2) prohibition of all forms of discrimination
3) prohibition of child labour
4) prohibition of forced labour and disciplinary measures
5) compensation: minimum wages/living wages
6) working hours
7) health and safety at the workplace
8) environmental and safety issues
9) implementation of a policy for social accountability
10) establishment of an anti-bribery and anti-corruption policy

The members are requested to adopt, sign and disseminate the BSCI Code of Conduct both internally and in their supply chain to inform employees and suppliers about the company’s dedication to social compliance and the BSCI development approach. This step ensures that all parties in the company and its supply chain are informed about their responsibility in the process. In doing so BSCI Members express their wish to do business with suppliers who take social responsibility seriously.

Source : BSCI

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

SAI - Social Accountability International.

SAI mission is to promote human rights for workers around the world as a standards organization, ethical supply chain resource, and programs developer. SAI promotes workers' rights primarily through our voluntary SA8000 system. Based on the International Labor Organization (ILO) standards and U.N. Human Rights Conventions, SA8000 is widely accepted as the most viable and comprehensive international ethical workplace management system available.SAI works with an array of stakeholders who are instrumental in the ever-continuing effort to improve and implement the SA8000 system. SAI approach cannot be effective unless every key stakeholder has a “say” with regard to its evolution. Therefore, SAI works with companies (such as the Gap, Inc., Co-op Italia, and Chiquita Brands International), consumer groups, non-governmental organizations (NGOs like Amnesty International and C.A.R.E.), labor organizations (which currently include a total of 15 million workers in their ranks), governmental agencies, and certification bodies around the world. SAI accredits the certification bodies for SA8000 auditing to ensure that workers receive the just and humane treatment they deserve.
Basic ethics and humanity are at the heart of the SAI mission; and the business case for using SA8000 has become increasingly more compelling. Companies and their suppliers are increasingly aware that treating workers humanely and fairly makes extremely good business sense. SA8000 incorporates third-party monitoring for credible verification, and has built-in management systems to minimize ethical sourcing risk, increase worker efficiency and productivity, and sustainably enhance a company’s or facility’s social performance record.

Mission:
SAI promotes human rights for workers around the world.
We work with companies, non-governmental organizations, labor and trade unions (International brands such as Chiquita, Dole, Gap Ltd, Timberland, Avon Products and Co-op Italia; various trade unions that represent over 15M workers in their ranks; NGO’s that include Amnesty International and CARE)
SAI partners with a global network of auditing groups known as ”certification bodies” which certify companies and production facilities to the SA8000 standard
SA8000 standard is a leading standard that incorporates third-party monitoring and innovative management systems
As a voluntary standard, SA8000 provides a sustainable framework for improved social performance that is robust while being flexible and pragmatic
SA8000 improves ethical workplace conditions around the world: not only is it the right thing to do but it also improves business productivity
SAI has offices that help you in China, Italy, Holland and Central America
The SAI standard is based on the International Labor Organization standards and UN Conventions for Workplace Rights – and are therefore viewed as incorporating the most robust principles with regard to workplace human rights.

Contact Details :
United States Main Office
Social Accountability International
15 West 44th Street,
6th FloorNew York, NY 10036
tel: (212) 684-1414
fax: (212) 684-1515
Email: info@sa-intl.org

Source / Courtsy ' SAI'.
ACIMIT (Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers)

ACIMIT (Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers) is a private national body that gathers Italian Textile Machinery Companies producing more than 80% of the entire Italian textile machinery production, and some associated members (consortia, technical schools, technical magazines, research centres).

Contact Details :
E-Mail : info@acimit.it
Website : http://www.acimit.it

28th INDIA KNIT FAIR

(Spring/Summer collection) 20 – 22 MAY, 2009.
Time: 9.30am – 6.00pm.
Venue: IKF Complex, Tirupur, India.

The 28th INDIA KNIT FAIR, TIRUPUR, INDIA, is the India's Biggest exposition on knitted garments. In the 28th edition of the IKF (Spring/Summer collection 2010) host some interesting theme based displays to showcase the fine creations something new for every on looker. World renowned Designers, World-class Manufacturers, International Buyers, Buying Houses/Agents and Celebrities from Fashion World will grace the occasion. This fair features leading knitwear exporting organizations from all over India. This event is a unique coming together of product and production facilities at one place. This makes INDIA KNIT FAIR an ideal platform to build contact, develop business prospects, work on major tie-ups and partnerships.


Traditionally , Tiruppur is famous for Knitwear. India knitwear is very well known and is now being sold to almost every country in the world. Indian Knitting industry has been able to win all the sophisticated world market including European Union, USA, Canada and Japan besides increasing its export growth rate remaking part of the world. World renowned label brands are being manufactured in Tirupur, India. The Knitwear sector has undergone significant changes and the gradual upgradation of technology for better quality has been its surge. The improvement in quality of products keeping India’s regular buyers together.


The India Knit Fair Association invites your presence in this 28th INDIA KNIT FAIR (Spring/Summer Collection 2010) to be held from 20-22nd May, 2009 promising you an unparalleled business opportunity and an exciting fashion event.

Contact Information:
Mr.K.VASANTH KUMAR (CO-ORDINATOR)
Mobile No : +91-98431 48777

INDIA KNIT FAIR ASSOCIATION
Admn.Office:INDIA KNIT FAIR ASSOCIATION
C/O APPAREL EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL
(Sponsored by Govt.of India , Ministry of Textiles)
No. 3, 3rd Street, Indra Nagar,
Off Avanashi Road, Tirupur - 641 603,
INDIA. Tel: +91 -421 - 223 2634,
Fax: +91 -421 -224 9630,
Telefax: +91 -421 -220 0022
E-mail:indiaknitfair@dataone.in

WEEKEND ONLY SUNDAY PROGRAMS ON GARMENT MANUFACTURING AND MERCHANDISING FROM IIFT

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF FASHION TECHNOLOGY was established in 2001 to impart professional training to students and potential employment seeker for Fashion and Apparel Industry as well as create a core group of people who are adequately trained to set up their own entrepreneurs, thus creating not only job seekers but job providers. It has now evolved in to a state of art, ultra modern premier, multi disciplinary Training Institute in the core areas of Fashion and Apparel Technology and Management.

The Institute has conducted number of Training Programs in association with Government of India and Government of Karnataka. Indian Institute of Fashion Technology has the unique distinction of being the only Institute in the country, as on date to be selected to enter into a Public Private Partnership Agreements with Government of India, Ministry of Textiles, Regional Office of the Textile Commissioner, Bangalore. An associate establishment of ours i.e., the IIFT College of Fashion is Affiliated to Bangalore University and recognized by Government of Karnataka to conduct the B.Sc Degree in Fashion and Apparel Design.

Approximately more than 2000 students have passed out from our Institute and many of them have been placed in attractive positions in the Fashion and Apparel Industry. The Fashion and Apparel Industry in India is presently employing about 55Lakh professionals in the present 76,000 Garment Industries in the country. The employment figures is expected to increase by an additional of 50Lakh professionals in the next 5 years based on the projections given by Government of India, Ministry of Textiles, Regional Office of the Textile Commissioner. Creating trained man power to fulfill this requirement is a huge challenge.

All the Fashion Training Institutions in the country put together may not be in the condition to fulfill this demand. Indian Institute of Fashion Technology is making a very significant effort in this direction. Our Training Programs are tailor made to create Managerial and Executive level professionals for the Fashion and Apparel industry (including the readymade Garment Factories).

IIFT is also conducting the Week end sunday programs in Garment Manufacturing and Merchandising for the benifit of the working proffessionals the details of the programs are given below:

WEEKEND ONLY SUNDAY PROGRAMS
POST GRADUATE DIPLOMA / ADVANCED DIPLOMA / DIPLOMA IN
GARMENT MANUFACTURING AND MERCHANDISING

Eligibility:
For PG Diploma: Graduation (Any Stream)
For Advanced Diploma:Diploma in Apparel Design & Frication Technology /Textiles / Handlooms

For Diploma: SSLC / PUC
Duration: One Year
Scope: This courses is ideal for Persons working in the Fashion/Textile/Accessories/Garment Industry or allied sectors who would like to upgrade their skills and equip themselves with a technical and professional knowledge, Qualification and Certification to enable them to progress in their careers


For more details contact :
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF FASHION TECHNOLOGY
Ms.SHILPA NANDEESH
CAREER COUNSELLOR
# 3, 1/6, M.C.Road, I Cross,Vijayanagar, Bangalore – 560 079.
Ph: 080 – 2310 7668 / 2340 7668/ 9008900071/ 9980097400
e-mail: info@iiftbangalore.com
Website: http://www.iiftbangalore.com/

Job loss feared in export sector

Job loss feared in export sector

NEW DELHI: Seeking another round of stimulus package exclusively for exporters, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) on Tuesday expressed fears that the global economic meltdown would have an adverse impact on India and nearly ten million people in the export sector will face job loss by March this year.


Stating that Indian goods were not only faced with fewer buyers in the international market but also aggressive “pricing” by China, FIEO said that exports would fall short of target and would not be able to surpass the $180 billion-mark if present conditions prevail. Indian exports, which account for just about 20 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), are a highly labour-intensive activity, employing 150 million people.


“The exporters are facing an unprecedented situation as buyers are cancelling orders and China has reduced prices in the international markets for its products. It has also made positive changes in its VAT structure to support the exports and exporters and we need a similar impetus from our Government here,” FIEO President A. Shakthivel told a press conference here. He said “the negative growth trends will continue in December and in the next couple of months. I hope we will end the fiscal with exports of about $175-180 billion.”

Source / Courtsy ' The Hindu'

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) ..


A brief about Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) :

Under its aegis, the FDCI will represent the interests of fashion designers. It will nurture the growth of this industry, help develop the needs of the industry, and provide a platform for Indian fashion designers.

The Indian Fashion Industry, in international terms is embryonic. Expansion and awareness of the industry in India has leapt multifold in the last ten or twelve years of its existence. As the opportunities for designers grow and develop so will the need for such a council in India.
Fashion Design Councils or Associations exist in all the primary fashion centers of the world. These councils were established to provide support and to benefit this vastly expanding and lucrative industry. In London, there is the British Fashion Council, in New York, the CFDA, and in Paris there is the Chambre Syndicale du Prêt-a-porter des Couturiers et des Createurs de Mode.

The FDCI will form a cohesive platform for designers. Create representations between its members and related governmental bodies, retailers and manufacturers thereby making the supply chain a smoother process. The council will conceptualize market trends and coordinate with manufacturers and retailers for the development of fabrics, prints etc.

Put up a proposal to accord industry status to the fashion business. Liaise with Financial Institutes and educate them on the credit-worthiness of its members. It will also look towards building investments schemes to support and finance its members.

Educate its members on all facets that make up this growing industry. These will include workshops and seminars on design and marketing related issues, merchandising etc. The council will conduct studies on market trends; consumer-buying cycles etc. and share this vital information with its members.

As a cohesive body, the FDCI will work towards promoting the interests of India as a country, and market the individual designers, creating a support for the fashion industry to enter mainstream fashion.

Contact Details :
Fashion Design Council of India
4th Floor, JMD Regent Plaza,
(Next to Global Business Park)
Mehrauli Gurgaon Road,
Gurgaon, Haryana- 122001
Phone: +91 124 4062881/ 4062882/ 4062883
Fax: +91 124 4062885
Email: contact@fdci.org
Website: http://www.fdci.org/
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Courtsy : (FDIC)