Cambodia's garment industry, once a lifeline for thousands of workers, is now on the brink of collapse as impending US tariffs cast a dark shadow over the sector. Many workers, already struggling with meagre wages, now face unemployment and crippling debt.
No Work, Just Debt
"There's no work now, just debt," says Sreyneath, a former garment worker who lost her job when her factory downsized. Like many others, she borrowed money to survive, only to find herself trapped in a cycle of repayments with no income.
The Impact of US Tariffs
The US government's proposed tariffs on Cambodian textiles could devastate the industry, which accounts for a significant portion of the country's exports. Factories are already cutting shifts or shutting down entirely, leaving workers in dire straits.
A Precarious Future
With limited alternative employment, many former garment workers are resorting to informal jobs with no security or benefits. Activists warn that without government intervention, the crisis could push thousands deeper into poverty.
Government Response Falls Short
While Cambodian officials have pledged support, workers say assistance has been slow and insufficient. Unions are calling for urgent measures, including debt relief and retraining programmes, to help those affected.
