Workers in the textile industry in Asia are experiencing serious fear for their future due to upcoming trade restrictions from the United States. The new trade tariffs announced by President Donald Trump threaten to cause large-scale economic shocks in countries like Cambodia and Sri Lanka.
On July 9, after a ninety-day negotiation pause, the American administration announced plans to introduce new tariffs that will take effect from August 1. Although slightly adjusted from the initial proposals in April, these tariffs continue to cause serious concern among local manufacturers.
Trump's letters directly affect key production centers that are highly dependent on the American market. Cambodia is expected to face tariffs of 36%, while Sri Lanka faces around 30%. This directly threatens the interests of world-renowned brands like Nike, Levi's, and Lululemon, which produce a large part of their production in these countries.
Workers on the ground express extreme anxiety about their future. Nao Soklin, an employee at a factory in Southeast Cambodia, shares: "What will happen if I lose my job? I am especially worried about my children who need to be fed".
Statistical data shows the scale of the problem. Cambodia has exported clothing worth over 3 billion dollars in the past year alone, with the sector providing a livelihood for more than 900,000 people. For Sri Lanka, exports to the USA have reached 1.9 billion dollars and represent the third most significant source of foreign currency receipts.
Local authorities are attempting to mitigate the situation through negotiations. Cambodia's Vice Prime Minister Sun Chantol states: "We want zero percent tariffs, but we will continue to seek opportunities for achieving lower rates".
Independent analysts like Professor Mark Aner from Rutgers University criticize the approach of the American administration. They emphasize that the new tariffs contradict the previous policy of support for developing economies.
Professor Shen Lu from the University of Delaware adds additional context by noting the geopolitical aspect of trade negotiations. According to him, there is a complex balance between the economic interests of the USA and China, which further complicates the situation.
Women, who make up around 70% of the workforce in the textile sector, are the most affected by these changes. For them, potential job cuts represent a direct threat to the livelihood of their families.
Cambodian worker Ann Sofik emotionally appeals: "We pray every day for President Trump to cancel the tariffs. Think about our poor country".
At present, it remains unclear whether additional agreements will be reached that would mitigate the economic pressure on these Asian countries.