Textile and Apparel Industries

A Decade of Progress: Improving Working Conditions in Vietnamese Apparel and Footwear Industry (2012-2022) 

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Abstract

This study analyzed the progression of working conditions in Vietnam's apparel and footwear industry (AFI) from 2012 to 2022. Utilizing systematic reviews and qualitative thematic analysis, the research highlighted improvements in compensation, contracts and human resources, occupational safety and health, and working time. Notably, compliance with labor standards improved dramatically, with non-compliance rates dropping significantly over the decade. However, issues like wage theft and overtime violations remain concerning. The findings emphasized the need for continued advocacy and policy enhancements to ensure ethical labor practices and promote transparency within the supply chain, ultimately contributing to better worker well-being in Vietnam's AFI. This research held significant academic value by contributing to the understanding of labor standards compliance in developing countries, particularly Vietnam's AFI. The data could be used as a benchmark for analyzing working conditions in other garment-producing countries, allowing for comparisons and identifying best practices across the industry.

Keywords: compliance, working conditions, Vietnamese Apparel and Footwear Industry

How to Cite:

Nguyen, K., (2025) “A Decade of Progress: Improving Working Conditions in Vietnamese Apparel and Footwear Industry (2012-2022) ”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18541