Cambodia overtakes China as Adidas' biggest apparel supplier

Cambodia was Adidas’ largest garment manufacturer in 2021, overtaking China, as the German sportswear giant turns to Southeast Asia to fulfill its manufacturing needs. according to the Bavaria-based firm’s financial report.

Cambodia made 21 percent of Adidas’ sports clothing in 2021, followed by China with 20 percent and Vietnam with 15 percent.

In 2013, China was the biggest producer at 33 percent, followed by Indonesia at 11 percent, and Vietnam at 10 percent.

China is faring worse with footwear, as Indonesia is now manufacturing 36 percent of Adidas’ sports shoes, with Vietnam accounting for 30 percent, and China with only 15 percent.

The situation is similar with Nike, with Vietnam manufacturing more than half of its sports shoes, a quarter in Indonesia, and 21 percent in China.

In pursuit of lower costs, many Chinese manufacturers are moving production to Southeast Asia. Shenzhou International Group Holdings, one of Adidas’ biggest suppliers, is building more plants in Cambodia and Vietnam.