COVID-19 lockdown halts garment production in parts of Cambodia

"The apparel, footwear and travel goods manufacturing sector is not considered essential sector that needs to stay open during the lockdown and thus we have to remain closed," the Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia (GMAC) said in a statement.

The lockdown has affected some factories working outside the lockdown areas, as their workers residing in Phnom Penh and Ta Khmau could not report to work, GMAC said. It added that the lockdown has also resulted in disruptions in the movement of raw materials and finished goods.

Since factories are unable to operate normally, GMAC members may not be able to honour their delivery schedules. The GMAC has appealed to all stakeholders not to punish its member-companies if they do not meet the previously agreed delivery schedules.

"We would like to appeal for your understanding to facilitate and make arrangements to help accommodate this special situation," GMAC said. "We urge all of you not to punish our members for this situation that is beyond our control."

There are approximately 1,000 factories in Cambodia producing garments, footwear and travel goods, together employing around 750,000 workers.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RKS)