Myanmar: 4000 workers now unemployed because of Covid19-related shutdowns and workforce reduction
"4000 workers in Myanmar unemployed over shutdown, workforce reduction," 15 March 2020
About 4000 workers have lost their jobs since the start of the year due to closures and reduction of workforce in 15 factories, according to U Thein Swe, Minister of Labour Immigration and Population.
U Thein Swe added that 20 other factories submitted their requests for suspension of activities.
He said among the reasons for the shutdown and reduction of the workforce, is the lack of raw materials, and the lack of orders amid the COVID-19 pandemic and land lease problems.
The minister added that of the 15 affected factories, nine stopped operations permanently, six stopped temporarily, and two reduced the number of workers.
U Thein Swe said the unemployed workers will continue to receive health care benefits, depending on their social security contributions, but not unemployment benefits.
“There is no request for unemployment benefit from the Social Security Board (SSB), so we can’t give it,” he said during a press briefing on Friday.
Among those who lost their jobs with the shutdown or reduction of workforce, were Chinese, and Korean citizens employed in these factories.