Levi Strauss & (US:LEVI) The Economic Times·2025-10-27 04:38Core Insights - The introduction of tariffs by the US has significantly impacted Lesotho's textile industry, which is the largest sector in the country, leading to job losses and economic contraction [1][6]. Industry Overview - Textiles is the biggest industry in Lesotho, employing 12,000 people and indirectly supporting 40,000 jobs, primarily supplying US retailers like Walmart, JC Penney, and Levi Strauss [2]. - Prior to the new tariffs, most exports to the US entered duty-free under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which has now been rendered defunct [2]. Economic Impact - The central bank of Lesotho had forecast modest growth for the textile sector before the tariffs were implemented, but the new outlook predicts contractions of 9.9% and 13.3% for the upcoming years [3]. - Lesotho's trade balance with the US is heavily skewed, with exports exceeding $235 million while imports were less than $3 million last year [3]. Employment and Social Context - The tariffs have exacerbated high unemployment rates in Lesotho, which stood at 30% last year, one of the highest globally [5]. - The founder of Afri-Expo Textiles described the tariffs as a shock comparable to the coronavirus pandemic, viewing it as a wake-up call for economic reform [5]. Political and Strategic Implications - Prime Minister Sam Matekane indicated ongoing negotiations with the US government for further tariff reductions, potentially down to 10% or zero [1]. - The tariffs have positioned Lesotho unfavorably compared to competitors like Kenya, prompting concerns about business relocations to countries with lower levies [1].