Factories on “hand to mouth” existence
Factories in zones are surviving on a “hand to mouth” basis with looming uncertainty as the economic crisis is expected to deepen in the next couple of months.
With insufficient fuel, workers arriving at work is less than 80-85 per cent and “things are getting worse,” FTZ Manufacturers Association Secretary Dhammika Fernando explained.
With uncertainty all around “we are living hand to mouth,” he noted adding that the real effects of these will be evident in a few months’ time, which is when a realisation of the current situation will be felt.
In addition, new banking regulations and rules are calling for more paper work with increased scrutiny by the banks and the requirement for hard copies on endorsements related to clearance of goods from Customs.
The bank needs to certify that this company has enough money or foreign exchange to get that particular import and that they do not import those that are not on the essential list, Mr. Fernando explained.
In this respect, the manufacturers are awaiting a meeting with the Central Bank authorities so as to iron out these concerns as they observe daily changes taking place relating to new regulations and rules.
FTZ General Services Trade Union Secretary General Anton Marcus explained that workers have made some proposals on how the industries can help them to ensure continuity of work.
During a meeting with the workers and trade unions it was found that they want to revive the petrol station at the zones and ensure that workers can obtain fuel from these on a coupon basis.
At the same time they want manufacturers to ensure that LP gas is issued to each of the employees with ID cards.
Further workers point out that the availability of a cooperative within the zones at concessionary rates would be beneficial for them.
Mr. Marcus pointed out that factory owners have not received any confirmation for new orders especially those in the SME sector. Most small factories operate with about 500 and less workers.
“We are really worried about the situation,” he said adding that the Labour Ministry is preparing for layoffs. This will definitely impact on Sri Lanka’s export earnings.
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