Myanmar's ascent in the garment world is fairly recent but is happening rapidly. One reason is Myanmar’s minimum wages for the garment industry are around $90 a month, the lowest in the region. In comparison, it is around $100 in Laos, $140 in Cambodia and around $150 in Vietnam.

The country is the largest in mainland southeast Asia by geographical area and is rich in natural resources. It also has a young population. In addition, Myanmar also enjoys tax exemptions from the EU market, which makes up 23 per cent of its garment exports. Other key markets are Japan, South Korea and China. Lower import tariffs than many of its Asean peers also work in favor of Myanmar.

Myanmar’s export industry is expected to reach $12 billion by 2020 and to create 1.5 million jobs. Relaxation of foreign direct investment rules, benefits for foreign investors like tax exemptions in the first five years and tariff-free imports of raw materials are expected to keep the country a suitable apparel sourcing destination for the garment industry.

China’s manufacturing industry for one is looking to minimise production costs by relocating production facilities to relatively accessible markets in Southeast Asia such as Myanmar.