Cosatu says it is opposed to Walmart’s interest in South Africa

By Lelethu Mquqo
28 September 2010

The Congress of South African Trade Unions in the Western Cape says it is opposed to Walmart’s interest in South Africa.

Cosatu said in a statement that Walmart is extremely “anti-union” and was an offence to workers’ rights wherever it operated.

Walmart has however promised to respect South African labour legislation.

Meanwhile, economists say Walmart’s takeover of local outfit Massmart will pose no threat to the employees of Game, Makro and Builders’ Warehouse.

They believe Walmart is more focused on using South Africa as a platform to access the rest of sub-Saharan Africa.

Economist Mike Schussler says because Walmart will be buying on a large scale, consumers will benefit more from the low prices of goods.