Yet the garment sector - the economy's $7 billion backbone that provides about 850,000 jobs - remains open, with workers increasingly fearful for their health on packed factory floors yet unable to quit as the breadwinners for struggling families. While lockdowns in other major exporters from Bangladesh to Vietnam have closed garment factories, a government spokesman said Cambodia's economy was a factor in keeping the sector open. The garment sector contributes about 40% of Cambodia's gross domestic product, and recent World Bank forecasts show growth slumping to 2.3% or worse for 2020 - down from the 7% average. None of Cambodia's confirmed cases of the virus have come from the garment industry, said spokesman Ek Tha, adding that factories were more hygienic than schools and religious sites. TRAVEL BANFear turned to frustration for many garment workers this week when Hun Sen cancelled the Khmer New Year holiday - due to begin on Monday - and instead announced a week-long travel ban.

Source: bd News24 April 10, 2020 12:56 UTC