HONDURAS AIMS TO BECOME LEADER OF TEXTILE INDUSTRY IN THE AMERICAS

TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras.- Honduras is pursuing an ambitious development plan focused on strengthening the textile industry, according to government sources. The Central American country has established itself as a leading player in recent years, currently holding the spot as the second largest exporter of textiles in the Americas, after Mexico.

Here are the top five reasons given by the government why Honduras is on the path to becoming the leader of the textile industry in the Americas.

1. Sustainability
The key to success for this transformation is sustainability. The plan, a joint initiative of the government and the private sector, seeks to position the country as a leader in the Americas that pushes the frontier of sustainability and innovation in textiles, raising the bar for development and productivity in the industry. This is a critical factor in the current global context where consumers, particularly the younger generations, demand sustainable practices and supply chain integrity throughout the production process.

2. Less environmental impact in textile production
Honduras has made large strides on environmental issues, following a business model that seeks and achieves high quality processes. Focused on the environment, Honduras has invested heavily in technology to ensure the sustainability of all manufacturing processes in the textile industry. For example, 100 percent of production plants treat water used in the fabric dyeing process to reduce environmental impact. Additionally the industry recycles more than 15 million pounds of salt per year used in the dyeing process. More recently, production plants have started adding new technologies to use recycled fibers.

3. Better labour conditions for workers in the textile industry
Honduras is implementing concrete actions to improve the quality of life of workers in the textile industry by providing access to social housing, a social protection system and education plans. These initiatives also contribute to building a highly skilled work force to fulfill the demands of this fast-growing industry worldwide.

4. A roadmap to transform the industry
In the next five years the Honduras 20/20 development plan seeks to create 200,000 new jobs in the textile industry, adding to the 145,000 existing jobs in the sector. The strategy to drive growth is focused on significant investment in infrastructure for the industry, as well as on providing tax incentives and strengthening legislation to create a more business-friendly environment.

5. Honduras is the centre of America
The country's location in the heart of the Americas gives Honduras' textile industry a competitive advantage: preferential access to key markets including the United States and Europe. This geographic proximity allows reduced shipping times and costs to major ports in the United States (two and a half days) and Europe (14 days), compared to Asian markets.

There is no doubt that the skilled labour force, sustainable management of natural resources, privileged geographic location, and strong labour rights for workers, will continue strengthening Honduras' leadership position in the textile industry in the Americas.

Any company producing textiles and any consumer wearing garments "Made in Honduras" can be confident in the quality and integrity of the country's products.