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5 February, 2026Brands and global trade unions have agreed to extend the Pakistan Accord, securing the continuation of a legally binding factory safety programme that covers thousands of garment workers in Pakistan.
The deal, reached by brand and unions under the International Accord, confirms that the Pakistan Accord will remain in force in its current form, maintaining independent inspections, safety remediation and worker complaints processes at supplier factories.
The renewed agreement took effect on 1 January 2026. More than 100 global brands and retailers have already re-signed, with further companies expected to follow as internal approvals are completed. Four brands sourcing in Pakistan, including Hugo Boss and LPP, have indicated that they do not intend to sign, which is completely unacceptable.
The Accord has been extended until 31 December 2026 and will then roll over automatically into a further three-year term through 31 December 2029, aligning it with the International Accord framework.
The extension reflects continued confidence in the Pakistan Accord’s model, which combines independent oversight with binding commitments on brands. Its programmes have played a central role in identifying serious safety risks, preventing workplace accidents and improving health and safety conditions across Pakistan’s textile and garment sector.
With the renewal confirmed, Accord programmes at supplier factories sourcing for signatory brands will continue without interruption. The extension provides stability for factories undertaking safety upgrades and gives brands greater certainty when sourcing from Pakistan.
“This renewal underlines a simple reality: voluntary approaches are not enough. The Pakistan Accord delivers real safety improvements because it is binding and enforceable. Brands that source from Pakistan should be part of this agreement and take responsibility for the conditions in their supply chains,”
says Atle Høie, IndustriALL general secretary.
Photo: Production floor layout of a textile factory in Karachi Pakistan. © Human Design Studios /ILO.