Gap Inc. is leading the way in a growing corporate movement for more socially responsible practices in the international textile industry. Gap has used its substantial economic power and influence to improve working conditions for employees in Africa, South and Central America and Southeast Asia. The global garment trade has been opened up by the end of the apparel and textile import quota system, which previously limited manufacturers' access to the U.S. apparel market. The Gap is trying to encourage other companies to use this new freedom to purchase from suppliers committed to providing decent wages and good working conditions.
See "Garment workers gain ally", Evelyn Iritani and Marla Dickerson, Chicago Tribune, January 30, 2005