Vietnam's textile industry has suffered continuous decline. Many orders have been shifted to countries such as Myanmar, Bangladesh and Cambodia. Revenue growth in recent years has decreased drastically compared to previous years. Moreover, in the fourth Industrial Revolution, with the development of robotics, automation and the internet, labor-intensive work will be replaced. Labor restructuring will have to keep up with economic restructuring.
A semiautomatic sewing machine doubles the productivity of one worker while halving the cost. After 1 year of use, capital for the equipment has been covered. However, the prediction that machines will replace about 80% of textile workers in the next decade may not be feasible.
"Machines can replace each stage of production, but with the products we are producing for Japan, they require us to to do the work manually because only qualified workers can attach the buttons to meet their standards. We create complex products that require high craftsmanship for a competitive advantage", said Than Duc Viet - Vice Director of May 10 Garco.
An economy that relies heavily on labor-intensive work such as textiles is no longer suitable. The 4th Industrial Revolution is restructuring the world's economic map, benefiting countries that rely on both technology and human resources.
"This revolution will bring faster connections. It was invented in the United States but is shared all over the world so that other countries can catch up. Many are worried that Vietnam will be left behind in this revolution, but with the right approach to development, Vietnam will be able to keep up", said Professor Mike Gregory from University of Cambridge.
In the history of the world, there have been many industrial revolutions that have created real change. This upcoming revolution will be no exception. Nevertheless, the basis for development is still human intelligence and skill. This is also true for the textile industry, especially now that many industrialised countries are increasing protectionism.
