The European Union is working with more than a 100 garment and textile factories in Myanmar in expanding training and capacity building programs for social and environmental performance.

The Smart Myanmar project, which will feature the involvement of local and European experts, will deliver on-site assessment and training on topics such as human resource management systems and workplace communications, occupational safety and health, chemicals and waste management, and energy efficiency. The aim is to improve work conditions, strengthen sustainable production practices and responsible supply chains and foster responsible business practices in Myanmar.

Smart Myanmar has been working with garment factories since 2013 to promote sustainable consumption and production of garments – a concept with an emphasis on resource efficiency and social responsibility. In fiscal year 2018-19, Myanmar-made garments were among the largest export categories in the country. Since 2013, Myanmar’s garment sector has shown staggering export-oriented growth. The garment industry serves largely the European market and has created job opportunities for thousands, mostly women. Europe is one of the world’s largest consumer markets. European consumers pay a lot of attention to where the products they buy come from and how they are produced. Sustainable production and respect for international labor standards are therefore important topics in the EU’s trade relations with Myanmar.