Chinese investments propel Myanmar’s garment industry despite challenges

According to Mr Sui Xigang, Vice-chair of the Chinese Business Association’s Garment Industry branch in Myanmar, China primarily invests in Myanmar’s CMP garment industry, which employs over 400,000 local workers.
As of the 2023-24 financial year, Myanmar hosts over 300 Chinese CMP garment factories, all registered with the Myanmar Investment Commission.
“The major investors in Myanmar’s garment industry are China, Korea, Japan, and Myanmar. China contributes over 60 per cent of these investments, ensuring industry stability,” Mr Sui Xigang stated. “Exports from Chinese CMP factories reached US$3.5 billion in the last financial year. These factories not only produce quality goods but also contribute to the development of skilled labour in Myanmar.”
Together with the Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association, we showcased over 100 brands and companies from China, Europe, Japan, and South Korea at an exhibition featuring Made in Myanmar garments, shoes, hats, and travel bags, presenting Myanmar’s quality products to the global market,” added Mr Sui Xigang.
Despite challenges such as foreign currency control, electricity shortages, and fluctuating orders due to European and American sanctions, Myanmar’s abundant young workforce, reasonable labour costs, and manufacturing capacity remain competitive advantages not only in Southeast Asia but also globally. — ASH/ TMT