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Looming U.S. Tariffs Threaten Asia’s Garment Supply Chain Stability

The Asian garment industry, a cornerstone of global apparel production, faces mounting pressure as the United States considers imposing higher tariffs on imported textiles and clothing. Industry stakeholders across major manufacturing hubs such as Bangladesh, Vietnam, and India are expressing concern over the financial strain these tariffs may introduce, particularly for low-margin producers. U.S. policymakers argue that the increased tariffs aim to reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing and encourage domestic production. However, trade experts warn that the move may spark price hikes for consumers, disrupt supply chains, and lead to job losses across developing economies heavily dependent on textile exports. Manufacturers are now exploring contingency plans: diversifying supply bases, investing in automation to reduce costs, and seeking new markets outside North America. Still, the unpredictability of trade policies leaves many factories in limbo. As the trade talks evolve, the garm...

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GST Holiday Brings Mixed Reactions from Retailers

 

Retail organizations are welcoming the federal government’s decision to temporarily suspend the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on a wide range of items from December 14 to February 15. This move is expected to boost consumer spending during the typically slow post-holiday period. However, industry observers warn that the implementation could pose significant logistical challenges for many retailers.

The Retail Council of Canada has highlighted that while the GST break will be straightforward for some businesses, others may face a laborious process. Retailers will need to identify which products qualify for the tax exemption, reprogram their point-of-sale systems, and prepare to reverse these changes once the holiday ends.

Small and medium-sized businesses, in particular, may struggle with the short notice and the administrative burden. Despite these challenges, the retail sector remains optimistic that the GST holiday will drive increased traffic and sales, providing a much-needed boost during a period of economic uncertainty.


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