Labour and social issues relating to export processing zones

International Labour Office


Introduction

1. Export processing zones in historical perspective

What are EPZs?
Why set up an EPZ?
How do they operate?
Variations on the theme: The examples of Mexico, Bangladesh and China

Problems with enclave zones
Why do enterprises invest in zones?
Incentives
Incentives or disincentives?
The new logic of global production
NAFTA
Quick response

2. Employment, labour relations and working conditions in EPZs

Women's employment in EPZs
Labour legislation and labour relations
Conditions of work and life

The particular position of women workers in zones
Labour administration
The interface between zone and society

3. Assessing the impact and potential of EPZS in a global economy

Are zones effective?
A flawed definition
What's wrong with EPZ jobs?
How are zone stakeholders responding?
Responses by governments
Responses by investors
Responses by workers' organizations

4. Summary and suggested points for discussion

Summary
Suggested points for discussion

Bibliography

BACK TO TRIPARTITE MEETING OF EXPORT PROCESSING ZONES OPERATING COUNTRIES


For further information or feedback on the Export Processing Zones please contact:
Auret van Heerden
Labour Law and Labour Relations Branch
E-mail: heerden@ilo.org