An industry quote:
I watched the textile and shoe manufacturing industries fall apart in Cape Town. I know a lady that went to work at the textile factory one day and it was closed - no warning, no nothing - everybody were forced to go home and never return. I did some work for a shoe manufacturer - they did many branded shoes for big retailers like Edgars....they are also long gone. I know two mom & pop shoe manufacturers in Cape Town - they used to sell at the Waterfront and flea markets....with Covid-19 they also closed down.Many challenges have impacted the South African clothing and textile industry since the transition to democracy occurred in the 1990s. Higher wages and lower demand have caused a steady decline in employment opportunities. The industry has averaged a job loss of about 4,000 people per year.
Cheap imports have also made it difficult for industry professionals to be competitive. Import increases from China, in particular, have been devastating. Some years saw import growth of more than 700%.
Did you like this article? Share it with your favourite social network.