Clothing factories in South Africa are facing significant disruption following recent xenophobic attacks that prompted a mass exodus of migrant workers. In Newcastle, a key manufacturing center, many factories report idle sewing machines due to the labor shortage. The violence has led to thousands of migrants fleeing the country, impacting production capacity. This disruption threatens the industry’s ability to meet demands and fulfill orders. Factory owners express concern about the long-term effects on the sector’s viability. The situation highlights the economic consequences of xenophobia and the reliance of some industries on foreign labor. Authorities are struggling to address both the immediate crisis and the underlying issues fueling the unrest.