March 2013

Women are crucial to China’s manufacturing sector. While women comprise more than 44% of the overall workforce, they represent about 60% of workers who migrate from rural areas to cities to work in factories. These female workers are diverse, with needs and goals in the workplace that vary depending on age, education, and industry experience. This report is based on surveys and interviews conducted by BSR in 2012 and 2013 in southern China with factory workers, managers, and NGOs to provide context on the status and aspirations of female factory workers in the region’s light manufacturing sector. Enabling the success of female factory workers will be crucial to the region’s future. Women factory workers have varying goals and concerns, reflecting their backgrounds, work experiences, and stages in life. This report emphasizes the importance of in-depth engagement with workers to understand their specific challenges and ambitions.