By Pen - Aug 06, 2025

Workers at the Chinese-owned CHI MEI Garment factory near No.14 Road Junction in Shwepyithar Industrial Zone, Yangon, are being forced to work excessive all-in overtime, according to reports made to STUM by the workers.

During July, workers were made to do overnight overtime for over 10 days, and it has continued into early August. Workers said the excessive overtime is taking a toll on their health.

Workers grade bonus is deducted if they don’t work overnight overtime, and the factory manager reportedly says management will increase their workload instead when workers say they’ll file a complaint.

Overtime was forced between July 8 and August 2 on alternative days, and workers are not being allowed to take leave even though each worker is supposed to get one rest day, they said.

Workers who do overnight overtime are given 3,000 kyats per day as a so-called meal allowance, but they said they only get a 30-minute break.

It’s also reported that there is no Workplace Coordinating Committee (WCC) formed at this workplace.

Workers were also forced to work overtime without proper approval, told to lie during inspections, and pressured into doing overtime work back in July. Violations have continued even after complaints were made, workers said.

The factory employs over 900 workers and manufactures coats, flannel, and surplus shirts.