Once the Vietnamese government has eased social distancing orders, the majority of Vietnamese enterprises have been quick to put in motion recovery plans and started resuming operations.

Garment 10's clothing stores reopen after social distancing order ends. Photo: Hoang Anh.

During the 15-day period of the nationwide social distancing campaign, Garment 10 Corporation, one of Vietnam’s leading companies in garment and textile industry, was forced to temporarily close their clothing stores but still paid wages for workers.

At a time of hardship, Garment 10 has shifted production from apparels to face mask to meet growing demands from the domestic and global markets.

The firm has recently reopened all 120 clothing stores nationwide as the anti-Covid 19 measures are partially lifted. However, all staff have been requested to strictly comply with safety regulations, including wearing face masks and keeping safe distance.

“As the pandemic is predicted to persist, Garment 10 is committed to overcoming difficulties for stronger growth,” said the firm’s representative.

Meanwhile, one of the utmost priorities of clothing company M2 since the reopening of tis outlets is to ensure safety for customers. At present, all customers are required to have body temperature checked, use hand sanitizers and wear face masks.

Additionally, all stores are sterilized once per week as part of the company’s efforts against the pandemic.

“I hope once people return to their normal lives, their shopping demands will grow and help boost our business results,” said General Director of M2 Vietnam Nguyen Hai Duong.

However, Duong said the company's production is still kept at the minimum, due to the lack of demand from the domestic markets and low export orders.

Duong expected M2’s 2020 revenue to decline by half compared to the same period last year, a situation that is shared by other fashion brands.

“M2 is planning to cooperate with its partners for greater efficiency in operation, while creating jobs for workers in a new situation,” Duong stressed.

Chairman of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) Vu Tien Loc said operating enterprises during the Covid-19 pandemic are the bloodline of the economy, which need strong measures from the government to help them cope with difficulties.

There would be severe consequences to the economy if these enterprises are forced to go dormant, said Loc.