Measurement objectives
1. Revival of the local textile industry: Stimulate local production and processing, to create added value and jobs.
2. Protection of local producers: Reduce competition from cheap imported products which stifle Senegalese tailors, artisans and textile companies.
3. Public health and dignity: Limit the health risks associated with the use of second-hand clothing, often imported without control, and promote consumption that enhances the dignity of citizens.
Issues and controversies
– Economic accessibility: Thrift shopping is the only accessible option for a majority of low-income Senegalese people. Removing this possibility without alternatives would risk increasing inequalities.
– Industrial transition: The national textile sector is not yet sufficiently structured to cover demand in terms of quality, quantity and price.
– Impact on traders: Thousands of small traders make a direct or indirect living from selling second-hand goods. A brutal ban could cause massive job losses.
Suggestions for making this transition a success and limiting the risks of failure
1. Implementation of a progressive plan:
– Awareness phase: Inform citizens and traders about the reasons and long-term benefits of this measure, with clear and inclusive communication.
– Partial ban phase: Start with a gradual reduction of imports, by establishing quotas or banning certain types of second-hand clothing (for example, worn or unsuitable clothing to meet health standards).
2. Strengthening local industry:
– Financial support: Subsidize local producers to reduce their production costs and make their products competitive.
– Development of textile sectors: Encourage the cultivation and local processing of raw materials such as cotton, with logistical and technical support.
– Modernization of workshops: Offer tailors and artisans modern equipment to improve quality and productivity.
3. Creation of an inclusive economic fabric:
– Set up cooperatives to integrate second-hand clothing traders into local textile sectors, where they could sell locally made clothing.
– Train small traders in new activities linked to textile trade or other sectors.
4. Price regulation:
– Establish mechanisms to make locally produced clothing accessible to as many people as possible, such as subsidies or tax exemptions for essential textile products.
– Control margins to prevent local producers from taking advantage of the ban to excessively increase their prices.
5. Consumer Support:
– Introduce credit systems or aid programs to enable low-income families to acquire clothing at a lower cost.
– Develop local recycling and second-hand solutions, with clothing produced and revalorized in Senegal.
6. Strengthening the quality of local products:
– Guarantee that locally manufactured clothing meets quality and comfort standards to meet consumer expectations.
– Create attractive national brands, with modern designs, which particularly appeal to young people.
7. Social support:
– Establish a compensation fund for traders directly affected by the ban.
– Offer training to redirect them towards other professions or activities.
The ban on second-hand clothing is an ambitious measure which could, in the long term, positively transform the Senegalese economy and industry. However, its success will depend on the implementation of a clear and inclusive transition plan.
It is essential to balance the protection needs of local industry with those of vulnerable populations and affected traders, while ensuring transparent communication and sustained support.
Souleymane Jules Sene
