Due to negative impacts of the global economic slowdown, garment and textile exports are estimated to reach US $1.15 billion in the first two months (down 12% against the same period last year).

Thus, the industry is implementing measures to boost up consumption and export, applying policies on finance and social security so as to ensure employment and income for 2 million workers as well as tackle difficulties relating to its markets,

The PM held that, it is vital for the sector to prioritize solutions to maintain production and save jobs for laborers.

The Government chief agreed with proposals made by the sector, including financing the purchase of 15 million tons of cotton for reserve, promoting export, and allocating lands for input materials.

He urged the sector and the Việt Nam Textile & Garment Group (VINATEX) to proactively renovate technology, improve workers’ skills, and expand markets.

In 2009, VINATEX should follow its approved strategy, striving to earn US $10-10.5 billion from export, emphasized the PM, adding that the sector must obtain an export turnover of US $25 billion and generate 5 million jobs by 2020.

By Kim Loan