Sunyani, Aug. 18, GNA - Participants at a day's workshop on the textile industry have expressed concern about unfavourable trade policies that have almost crippled the batik, tie-and-dye industry. They noted that if the unfavourable market challenges confronting entrepreneurs, notably the cheap importation of second-hand clothing were not effectively controlled, the industry would collapse. The participants elaborated that if the situation continued, many entrepreneurs would become unemployed.

The workshop was organised by Brong Ahafo Regional branch of Batik, Tie and Dye Manufacturers Association.

Mr. Michael Mensah, a development consultant, noted the flooding of the markets with low quality but cheaper tie and dye products from Togo, Burkina-Faso and La Cote d'Ivoire. He expressed regret that public officials were not supporting the industry.

Mr. Sam Bansah, Brong-Ahafo Regional Manager of National Board for Small Scale Industries (NBSSI) who presided, expressed concern about market competition policy neglect, credibility and little advocacy at all

levels of policy formulations. He called for commitment to the growth of the private sector, the cornerstone of the country's economic development.

Mrs. Juliana Nettey, Regional Chairperson of the Association in a welcoming address urged the participants to take the workshop seriously so they could work to sustain the industry.