As Cambodia lacks a textile industry to support its garment sector, neighbouring Thailand’s export of textiles has soared and is expected to grow by 15 per cent. Thai textile exports were also boosted by demand from other apparel-producing countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, India, Europe and the United States, and the trend for environment-friendly products.

Though Thailand’s garment and textile factories have returned to 100 per cent capacity, a labour shortage has arisen as foreign workers returned to their home countries during the COVID-19 crisis. The factories are currently short of 30,000 to 50,000 workers and are dependent on overtime work.

This shortage could lead to a reverse surge of Cambodian migrant workers back to Thailand in search of employment now that the economy and industry is beginning to open up and resume operations to cater to worldwide demand, according to a report in a Cambodian newspaper.

As Cambodia lacks a textile industry to support its garment sector, neighbouring Thailand’s export of textiles has soared and is expected to grow by 15 per cent. Thai textile exports were also boosted by demand from other apparel-producing countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, India, Europe and the United States, and the trend for environment-friendly products.

Thai Garment Manufacturers Association president Yuttana Silpsarnvitch said major brands are ordering products made from recycled fibres, organic cotton and other eco-friendly materials.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)