The influx of Chinese females since the late 1960s has supplied the industry with a continuous stream of workers. Almost as quickly, the Chinese moved into contracting, setting up their own garment factories. There are approximately 600 to 700 such factories producing about a third of all garments manufactured in New York. Most are small enterprises. The retention of the apparel industry in New York also generates peripheral jobs in the fashion industry.
Chinese restaurants are a ubiquitous sight in New York City and elsewhere.
There are more than 2,000 restaurants scattered throughout the Tri-State Region. They are the second most important economic activity for the Chinese. The American public is treated to new foods and exotic flavors, adding a new dimension to their eating experience. Besides creating jobs, these restaurants provide significant sales for the seafood, meat, vegetable, linen, and other suppliers. Without Chinese immigrants, this industry would not exist.