South African Clothing Retailers To Reduce Dependence On Imports

According to foreign media, South African retailers Foschini group and Woolworths are increasing investment in local clothing manufacturers to reduce dependence on Chinese clothing imports and to protect the supply chain that has been disrupted by restrictions on the outbreak of new crown pneumonia. The two companies have signed an industry plan that includes a target of purchasing 65% of the goods they need from local manufacturers over the next decade. Analysts believe that it is the general trend and retailers are increasingly buying locally. But South Africa cannot fully revive the industry because local retailers "cannot replace all product lines.". The industry also faces a shortage of technicians and raw materials, which means a lot of up front investment is needed to revitalize the industry.