Published: 02 September 2013

MORE than 10 big companies in the clothing industry in Bulawayo have closed shop in the last few years, as challenges affecting the sector continue unabated, the National Union of the Clothing Industry (Nuci) has revealed.

Bulawayo, the former industrial hub of the country, used to have a number of vibrant clothing and textile industries, supplying both local and export markets.

Nuci deputy secretary-general Kezilina Ndlovu said, regrettably, a number of workers were left jobless after companies closed down.

She said closed companies included True Value, Label Fashion, Suntosha Leisure Wear, Luncaster, Harren Manufacturing, Ascot, Belmor Fashions, Cinderella and Rusglen Fashions.

Ndlovu said the future was inevitable for the closed companies, as they had faced many operational and capital constraints.

Ndlovu said imports from China and South Africa were killing the local clothing industry.

It has been reported that smuggling of cheap products into the local market was also affecting the local industry.

More than 30 000 jobs have reportedly been lost in the clothing and textile industries countrywide in the last decade due to economic challenges besetting the sector.
- southerneye