Estrategias de las pymes manufactureras ante la importación de ropa chatarra.

Abstract

The study addresses the challenges faced by the Ecuadorian textile sector due to the importation of low-qualit y clothing, known as "junk clothing," linked to fast fashion, which creates unfair compet it ion and affects manufacturing SMEs. The removal of safeguards in 2018, e-commerce, and the 4x4 import regime have increased the influx of low-cost textiles, weakening the nat ional industry. Furthermore, the rise of plat forms such as Shein, Temu, and Fashion Nova has changed consumer preferences, exacerbat ing textile pollution. Using a qualitative and exploratory approach, the study analyzes factors such as consumer perception, sustainabilit y, and innovat ion, with the aim of strengthening SMEs and promoting sustainable development.