How do fish market earnings compare to garment factory wages?

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Fish Market Workers Earn More Than Garment Factory Employees

Fish market workers in Yangon report daily earnings ranging from 15,000 to 25,000 kyats (approximately US$7 to US$12). This income level is generally higher than that of garment factory workers, who, according to union reports, earn between 10,000 and 20,000 kyats per day. These figures highlight a notable disparity in daily wages between these two sectors within Myanmar's economy.
Daily Earnings in Fish Markets

Workers at Yangon's Shwe Padauk and San Pya fish markets handle substantial volumes of seafood, with Shwe Padauk alone processing over 650,000 kilograms of freshwater products daily. Despite the physically demanding nature of the work, often involving wading through ice and sorting large quantities of fish, the daily compensation for these market workers falls within the 15,000 to 25,000 kyat range. This income is crucial for individuals working in these vital hubs of the Yangon food supply chain.
Garment Factory Wage Scale

In contrast, the garment industry in Myanmar, a significant export sector, offers a different wage structure. Unions representing garment factory workers indicate that daily earnings typically range from 10,000 to 20,000 kyats. This segment of the workforce faces its own set of challenges, but their reported daily income is consistently below that of their counterparts in the fish markets.
Economic Pressures Affecting Income

The earnings in both sectors are not immune to broader economic pressures, including the ongoing civil war and global economic shifts. For instance, disruptions in seafood supply chains due to conflict in regions like Rakhine state and increased global fuel costs have impacted the fish market business. A seafood dealer noted a drop in income this year, attributing it to higher commodity prices and reduced sales, which in turn affects the affordability of fish for consumers.

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How do fish market earnings compare to garment factory wages?

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