Belarus Flax Mill Solves Labor Crisis with Vietnamese Workers

Orsha Flax Mill Addresses Labor Shortages with Vietnamese Workers Orsha, Belarus - The Orsha Flax Mill, a major employer in the region, is addressing a critical labor shortage by employing Vietnamese workers. This decision, according to Deputy General Director Sergey Sidin, is a necessary measure to maintain production levels given significant investments in the mill and a lack of local applicants. "It was initially difficult to adapt them," Sidin admitted in a recent talk show appearance, "but it hasn't impacted crime or inter-ethnic relations." He underscored the mill's investment of over $200 million and the resulting need for workers to operate the advanced equipment. The situation reflects a broader trend in Belarus, where labor shortages are impacting various sectors. The use of migrant workers, while not without its challenges, presents a solution to keep Belarusian industries competitive and productive. The Orsha Flax Mill's experience offers a case study for addressing similar issues in other parts of the country. The mill's success in integrating Vietnamese workers and maintaining production despite the challenges suggests a potential model for other industries facing similar labor shortages.