Industry News

Cambodia Approves $9.32 Billion Budget for 2025 Amid Economic Growth Projections
Oct 28, 2024

Cambodia’s government approved a 2025 budget of 37.950 billion riels ($9.32 billion), slightly lower than the previous year, aiming to support economic growth, institutional development, and infrastructure. The budget, accounting for 18.14% of GDP, now awaits legislative approval.

Myanmar Mandates 25% Wage Remittance from Migrant Workers in Laos to Boost Currency Reserves
Oct 28, 2024

Myanmar’s labor ministry now requires migrant workers in Laos to send 25% of their wages through official channels to boost foreign currency reserves. Workers, concerned about low exchange rates and fees, say this impacts their take-home pay. The policy mirrors similar remittance requirements for Myanmar workers in Thailand.

Better Cotton Pakistan Partners Sign Memorandum to Boost Sustainable Cotton Production
Oct 25, 2024

Better Cotton Pakistan has signed a "Memorandum of Understanding" with a local manufacturing giant and the Central Cotton Research Institute. Over the next 3 years, the Mahmood Group will fund the training to support 8,000 farmers in promoting sustainable cotton production in Pakistan. The partnership aims to rebuild Pakistan's cotton sector, after it suffered from floods.

Concerns Raised Over Working Conditions at Yangon-based Factroy
Oct 25, 2024

Workers at the Eternal Fashion garment factory in Yangon report excessive overtime, mistreatment, and poor working conditions. Complaints about forced weekend work, discrimination, and health risks have been raised with local labor authorities, but no effective actions have been taken to address the issues.

Italian Police Shuts Down Illegal Factory Exploiting Bengali Workers
Oct 25, 2024

The Italian Guardia di Finanza seized an illegal factory in Naples, where 15 Bengali workers, including two without contracts, were exploited in unsafe conditions. Two managers were reported for labor exploitation, illegal waste disposal, and counterfeit product sales.