Wal-Mart said it stands by its zero-tolerance policy to automatically cut ties with suppliers that violate its safety standards or engage in unauthorized subcontracting.

WSJ: Retailers' Dilemma: Ax or Help Fix Bad Factories?

Wal-Mart, whose products were found at the scene of the Tazreen fire even though it had barred contractors from using the factory, overhauled its global sourcing standards this year, adopting a "zero-tolerance policy" for violations.

WSJ: At Least 159 Die in Bangladesh Building Collapse

Instead, opportunities for jobs and advancement remain close to zero, and the vast majority of people continue to live a hand-to-mouth existence by American standards.

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