An article from The Economist Intelligence Unit reports on other threats to the textile industry in Nicaragua, which in recent years has grown vigorously, with the sector's exports in 2011 reaching $1.4 billion, which represents more than a third of the country's total exports.

Added to the possible loss of preferences for exports to the United States, is the decline in global prices for finished products, and the fact that the cost differential that Nicaraguan maquilas have with its competitors is declining.

As an example, the relationship between the level of wages paid by maquilas in Nicaragua, and those paid by the industry in neighboring Honduras, has fallen from 50% to 30%.

More on this topic

Honduras: Maquila Exports up to the Second Quarter of 2017

August 2017

Exports of goods for processing in the first half of 2017 totaled $1,992 million, of which $1,624 million corresponded to the textile industry.

From the report "Foreign trade of goods for transformation up to the second quarter of 2017" by the Central Bank:

Honduras: Textile Industry to Grow 10%

February 2017

The union of maquila companies estimates that this year exports will grow 10% compared to 2016, reaching $4.5 billion, driven by increased demand in the United States.

According to the Honduran Maquiladora Association (AHM), in 2016 exports of textiles and clothing were worth close to $4.1 billion, and this year it is hoped the figure will go up to $4.5 billion.

New Holland Apparel expands in Nicaragua

October 2010

The apparel company expanded its facilities located in Zona Franca, Astro Nicaragua.

The company, which began operating in the country in 2006, currently employs 1,600 people.

Robert Neff, CEO of New Holland Apparel of Nicaragua, told El Nuevo Diario that "next year we will produce sportswear for a new client, Adidas / Reedbok."

Textile Company Matex Sets Up Shop in Honduras

February 2010

The textile and apparel “maquila” will be located in the “Zip Calpules” field, in San Pedro Sula.

María de los Angeles Posso, from the Labor Ministry, explained the company has already started recruiting personnel.

“Daniel Facussé, president of the Honduran Maquila Association, expects textile exports to increase 5% in the first half of the year, resulting in more job creation”, reported Laprensa.hn.