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纺织业回流美国,为什么这样难?
Huan Qiu Shi Bao·2025-05-12 22:47

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. textile industry has been in decline for decades, with only about 100 cotton spinning mills remaining, and the government’s push for manufacturing jobs to return is met with skepticism regarding its feasibility and potential economic impact [1][2][4]. Industry Status - The U.S. textile industry has experienced significant offshoring, first to Japan and South Korea, then to Taiwan, mainland China, and Southeast Asia, driven by the pursuit of lower production costs [1]. - As of now, approximately 97% of clothing and footwear sold in the U.S. is imported, with China being the largest source [7]. Government Policy and Industry Response - U.S. Treasury Secretary's comments on prioritizing precision manufacturing over textiles have sparked protests from industry representatives, highlighting a divide in perspectives on the future of the textile sector [5][6]. - There is a lack of consensus within the U.S. regarding the revival of the textile industry, with some arguing it is already "dead" and questioning the desirability of bringing it back [4][5]. Labor and Production Challenges - The high labor costs in the U.S. make it difficult for the textile industry to return, as the average manufacturing wage is significantly higher than in Southeast Asia [8]. - The aging workforce in the textile sector poses a challenge, as younger generations are less inclined to take on labor-intensive jobs [6][8]. Supply Chain and Infrastructure Issues - The U.S. lacks the necessary labor, skills, materials, and infrastructure to support a large-scale return of the textile industry [7][8]. - Rebuilding the textile supply chain would require substantial investment in factories and equipment, as well as addressing the high wages and low-skill labor gap [8]. Global Trade Implications - A forced return of the textile industry to the U.S. could disrupt global trade systems, negatively impacting countries in Southeast Asia and Latin America that rely on textile exports [9][10]. - The potential for trade retaliation and increased costs for consumers in the U.S. could arise from protective policies aimed at reviving the textile sector [10].