US Tariffs Threaten Myanmar’s Earthquake-Hit Garment Industry

Myanmar’s garment sector warns new US tariffs could cripple its recovery efforts as the country reels from a deadly earthquake that has killed 3,600 people.

The 44% import tax, set to take effect Wednesday under President Donald Trump’s trade policy, targets Myanmar amid ongoing civil conflict and widespread poverty.

Industry leaders say the tariffs jeopardize more than 500,000 garment jobs, mostly held by young women, as businesses struggle to survive in the quake’s aftermath.

The March 28 tremor destroyed thousands of homes, schools, and monasteries in central Myanmar, leaving 160 people missing and over 5,000 injured.

Myanmar’s economy, already strained by conflict since the 2021 military coup, now faces deeper instability as the U.S. pulls back humanitarian support.

Bilateral trade with the U.S. fell to $734 million last year, with Myanmar exports dropping over 23% to $656.5 million, according to U.S. data.

The World Food Programme also announced it is cutting aid to one million people due to funding shortfalls linked to U.S. budget cuts.

The Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association has urged Washington to reconsider the tariff rate in light of the country’s overlapping crises.