Aye Mi Shein, the managing director of the Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association (MGMA), highlights that the recent earthquake has significantly affected three major regions: Mandalay, Sagaing, and Nay Pyi Taw. Most garment factories are situated in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city.
The impact of the earthquake on the Myanmar garment industry is substantial, as many factories producing “totally local productions and home textiles” are now “not operated due to the earthquake strike.” Shein estimates that approximately 100,000 factory workers who depend on these garment factories are currently unable to work due to the operational disruptions.
However, he mentions that the impact on the international garment sector, particularly those working under the CMP (Cut, Make, and Package) model with brands, is somewhat less severe.
In light of the situation, MGMA is actively seeking immediate financial donations and assistance. Shein states, “Some regions of Sagaing, Mandalay, Nay Pyi Taw, and Shan State were affected terribly, and many families and lives were lost.” The urgency of addressing the impact of the earthquake on the Myanmar garment industry is clear, as the need for support grows.
There is a pressing need for donations in the Mandalay region to provide a generator connected to solar panels for well drilling, tents for temporary housing for the displaced, solar lamps and lighting, medicine, emergency supplies, and equipment such as mosquito repellent patches, headlamps, safety helmets, masks, safety boots, disinfectants, masks, and gloves.
The Sagaing region requires body bags, emergency supplies, water, medicine, and tents for those without shelter. The impact of the earthquake on the Myanmar garment industry has led to severe challenges for workers and manufacturers alike.
The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) has provided four recommendations for companies operating in Myanmar and Thailand to ensure responsible sourcing. They state: “We encourage all international buyers still sourcing in Myanmar to engage and support their affected suppliers, workers, and their representatives. Businesses have a responsibility to adhere to international labour standards, as captured in the ETI Base Code, and apply the UN Guiding Principles, particularly during periods of heightened human rights risks, such as earthquakes.”
At the same time, Myanmar faces the repercussions of US President Trump’s newly implemented ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs, which impose a 49% tariff increase on goods manufactured in Myanmar that are destined for the US, effective April 9. The ongoing effects of the impact of the earthquake on the Myanmar garment industry may further complicate the recovery process.
