Opaque Outsourcing and Overseas cheap labor

Low cost labor and outsourcing clothing production to cheap overseas factories has become a widespread practice in the fashion industry. It's a way for companies to produce clothing at a lower cost, however, the cost of this production comes at a high price for the workers and the environment.

One of the biggest issues with outsourcing clothing production is the cost of living. Many of the countries where clothing is outsourced, such as Bangladesh, China, and Vietnam, have a much lower cost of living than developed countries like the United States or Europe. However, the wages paid to workers in these countries are often not enough to cover their basic needs. According to a report by Oxfam, a global organization fighting poverty, workers in Bangladesh and Cambodia, for example, are paid less than a living wage, making it difficult for them to afford food, housing, and healthcare.

Another major issue is the lack of fair wages. Many workers in these countries are paid minimum wage or even less. According to the Fair Labor Association, a non-profit organization that promotes fair labor practices, minimum wage in Bangladesh is $95 a month, less than half of what is considered a living wage. In addition, many workers do not receive overtime pay or benefits, making it difficult for them to support themselves and their families.

The unsafe working conditions are another negative impact of low cost labor and outsourcing clothing production. According to the International Labor Organization, many factories in developing countries lack basic safety measures such as fire exits and adequate ventilation. This can lead to dangerous and even deadly working conditions, such as the Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh in 2013, which killed more than 1,100 workers.

Lastly, the lack of transparency in the supply chain is a major issue. Many companies do not disclose where their clothes are made, making it difficult for consumers to know if the clothes they are buying were produced ethically. This lack of transparency also makes it difficult for organizations to monitor and improve conditions in these factories.

At the end of the day, low cost labor and outsourcing clothing production to cheap overseas factories is a widespread practice in the fashion industry, but it comes at a the detriment to the people doing the work, as well as the long term sustainability of the planet we all share. The cost of living issue, fair wages, unsafe working conditions, and the lack of transparency are just some of the negative impacts of this practice. Consumers can make a difference by choosing to shop more sustainably and supporting ethical brands. Additionally, fashion companies must take responsibility for their impact and work towards creating a more sustainable industry.