South Africa’s push to replace migrant workers is exposing deeper problems in its clothing industry, where low wages, skills shortages and weak demand are leaving factories struggling to stay afloat.
As extreme heat intensifies across Asia, the global fashion industry is being forced to redesign factories and rethink supply chains to protect workers, sustain productivity, and build greater climate resilience.
Minimum wage increases compound the pressure in the apparel supply chain, as brands and retailers scrutinize costs as they look for ways to mitigate U.S. tariffs.
