With the Covid-19 pandemic and the political situation in Myanmar, about 300 factories have stopped their operations and over 100,000 workers became jobless, said Union Minister for Labour Dr Pwint Hsan.  

He disclosed the information during a tripartite meeting involving the government, employers and employees via video link on September 19.

To be exact, he said, 291 factories closed down and 104,798 workers were laid off. However, during a period from February 1, 2021 to July 18, 2022, 114 new factories were established and 100 others reopened, enabling 54,819 workers returned to their work.

There are various labour organizations at central to lower levels with over 190,000 members, and such organizations are free to be formed in accord with the law, the union minister added.

He pointed out that closures of factories and workshops would harm the interests of both employers and employees, thereby causing harmful impact on the country’s manufacturing capacity and economy. For ensuring good worksite relations, any problem should be solved in accord with the law in a positive manner and through negotiation, he suggested.