THE head of the island’s garment producers called on industry leaders to continue working together as a team to survive hard economic times and withstand criticisms from some quarters.

“I encourage all members to work hard. Hand-in-hand, we can work together. This industry needs to go on. This is an important industry,” said James Lin in his speech during a recent Christmas luncheon at the Aqua Resort Club.

Lin was re-elected chairman of the Saipan Garment Manufacturers Association during the event.

2003, said Lin, was a “very tough year,” citing pressing labor concerns and the SARS problem that weakened the local economy. He nonetheless acknowledged successful projects that the association undertook in 2003, specifically the Excellence 2000 Partnership with federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration offices.

“Where are we next year, we don’t know. But let’s work together,” said Lin.

Lin noted that despite criticisms thrown at the local garment industry, orders keep coming in.

For his part, SGMA Executive Director Richard A. Pierce outlined 2004 goals and projects—tax and wages issues, community relations, manpower supply issues, health and safety concerns, and the realignment of association committees.

He said SGMA will also continue working with the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, the Strategic Economic Development Council and the Northern Marianas College.

The SGMA membership also elected H.K. Min and Eloy Inos as vice chairmen, Kidong Choi as secretary, and Dal-Eon Chung as treasurer.

Pierce will continue another term as an SGMA officer and executive director.

Selected as 2004 board companies were United International Corp., Neo Fashion, Inc., Concorde Garment Manufacturers, Michigan, Inc., Sam Marianas, Inc., Sako Corp. and Rifu Corp.

During the luncheon, Lin and Pierce handed over a check for $2,500 to Angie Guerrero, Karidat Social Services executive director, as their 2003 annual contribution.

SGMA has contributed approximately $85,000 to Karidat and the Catholic Social Services in cash, clothing and food towards operations and typhoon disaster relief since their association Christmas contributions to Karidat began.

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