Thailand’s Garment and Textile Industry, “Open for Business”.

After the worst floods in 50 years halted production in many of Thailand’s manufacturing areas, some of which are home to numerous apparel manufacturers, upstream weaving, bleaching and dyeing companies, factories are now mostly dry and open for business.

According to the Thai Garment Manufacturer Association (TGMA), about 22 textile companies and 142 garment companies in Thailand have been affected by the floods, representing about 25% of the country’s garment production.

The association’s secretary general Mr Yuttana Silpsarnvitch told just-style, an industry webzine, that “they are working closely with their members to help them resume production by helping to source materials and even engaging a sewing machine company to conduct repairs quickly”.

The Thai government is doing its part to help effected industries by announcing incentives such as debt deferment, long term loans with lenient conditions, and tariff deductions on imported machinery and certain material items. The Thai Foreign Ministry has even eased its immigration rules to allow foreign specialists and engineers to enter Thailand to work and help with the recovery effort.
Preventative measures are being taken. Mr. Phongsak Assakul, Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade of Thailand and Managing Director of Bangkok Weaving Mills (SAFSA member) told SAFSA, that “Foreign and local investors and buyers can be assured that the Thai government is in the process of implementing long-term water management measures to ensure that the next rainy season in May won’t be a repeat of this year’s problems”. Thailand’s textile and garment industry is quickly recovering and is “open for business”.

SAFSA members are reminded that the VALUE Project, which serves as the SAFSA Secretariat, is located in Thailand. Should you require any further information or updates on the flooding situation or recovery efforts, please feel free to contact us.