What can the American consumers, manufacturers, and Government do to keep apparel manufacturing activities alive in the USA?
Sweatshirts from Honduras, T-shirts from Sri Lanka, lingerie from China and more... Almost98% of the clothing sold in the US is being imported from other countries. Slow dyeing of the apparel manufacturing companies in US, and a drastic increase in the outsourcing activities; overseas, have made it hard to find American made merchandise.
US apparel manufacturing was at its peak during the 70s with 1.5 million employees, being the biggest employer in the manufacturing sector. Cost of labor is high in US, which has initiated the outsourcing process. A garment worker in a Chinese factory makes approximately $14 a day, whereas an American worker makes $88 for a day. This stark difference has led to outsourcing options. Textile industries shifted their production base to countries with low labor and manufacturing costs.
Industry analysts state that price conscious US customers have generated a trend called fast fashion,focusing on which the US manufacturing industry has lost some of its competitiveness amid a booming market. American consumers prefer quick changing styles and new apparels in the store racks frequently. They also prefer to do shopping at affordable prices. Companies attempt to manufacture clothing in an inexpensive price range, lasting for a short period of time.
Comments