The Centre for Development and Enterprise (CDE) has launched a proposal for a policy reform zone at the established Coega special economic zone (SEZ): a new zone that would manufacture goods for export only. This proposal, which generated significant media interest, was based on extensive research and discussions with the world’s leading SEZ experts, zone managers here and abroad, representatives of the department of trade, industry & competition, senior businesspeople and top academics.
In Business Day (19 May), Ismail Lagardien criticised CDE’s proposal as outdated and harmful for women. Lagardien cites SEZ experience in 1990s Mexico: “Because these ‘zones’ were unaffected by national laws, women in particular faced grave threats of discrimination, sexual harassment, physical danger and abuse. They were expected to undergo involuntary pregnancy tests to avoid being paid maternity leave — as mandated by Mexican law.” ..
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