Study of Supply Chain Management of Apparel Order Process:A Case Study of Uzbekistan Apparel Industry

Uzbekistan’s Apparel has registered development since her independence from the soviet state (USSR). Being land locked despite the supporting factors such as political stability, fast growing economy, infrastructure and rich raw materials, supply chain management is strongly required to reduce lead time. The main objective of this study was to understand apparel supply chain difficulties starting from new orders, supply of raw materials, production processes to finished goods distribution. We collected data from trade statistics, structured interviews and survey questionnaires were sent to manufacturers. We identified supply chain practices influencing the industry, came up with guidelines for improvement and sustainable growth of the sector. This study focused on companies in major Uzbekistan cities of Tashkent, Andijan, Fergana, Namangan, Kokand and Samarkand. The study revealed that, to reduce lead time by 80%, reduction of import dependency, improving machinery technology and attracting foreign investors in the apparel industry is required.