In a significant development for the Tunisian textile industry, workers are set to receive a 20% wage increase spread over the next three years. The agreement, reached on January 12, 2024, between the IndustriALL affiliate Fédération Générale du Textile, de l’Habillement, Chaussure et Cuir (FGTHCC-UGTT) and the employers’ organization Fédération Nationale du Textile (FENATEX-UTICA), marks a substantial victory for labor rights in the country.
Significant Wage Increases and Seniority Bonuses
Negotiated at the General Labour Inspection headquarters and overseen by the Ministry of Social Affairs, the agreement outlines a wage increase of 6.5% for both 2024 and 2025, followed by a 7% increase in 2026. Additionally, a seniority bonus of 1% for every second year of service has been established for Tunisian textile workers.
Regulatory Revisions for Career Advancement
Beyond wage adjustments, the agreement includes significant revisions to the regulatory framework governing promotions within the Tunisian textile sector. Amendments to the Joint Sectoral Textile Agreement ensure the maintenance of the same grade for promotions, thereby securing an upward career trajectory for workers in the industry.
Union Leaders Highlight Importance and Achievements
Habib Al-Hazami, General Secretary of FGTHCC-UGTT, emphasized the importance of the wage increase in restoring the purchasing power of Tunisian textile workers. “The agreement is a result of the sound social climate in the sector and responsible negotiations,” he stated.
Atle Høie, General Secretary of IndustriALL, praised the achievement as a crucial union victory amidst the challenges faced by the Tunisian economy. “This is the result of the hard work of FGTHCC-UGTT over many years in organizing and improving sectorial social dialogue. We congratulate all TGSL workers in Tunisia and the union leadership,” he remarked.
This agreement reflects ongoing efforts to improve labor conditions and demonstrates the effective collaboration between unions and employers in the Tunisian textile industry.
