FW
As the second China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) unfolds in Beijing, the spotlight shines on China's textile and apparel sector, a critical pillar of the nation's robust supply chain network and a major contributor to the global economy.
China has solidified its position as a dominant force in the textile and apparel industry, boasting the world's largest production capacity and export volume. This success is due to several factors.
• Scale: China's textile industry leads with over 40 per cent of the world's 500 major industrial products, holding the top spot in global manufacturing for 14 consecutive years. This massive scale translates into competitive pricing and a vast array of product offerings.
• Supporting systems: Over the years, China has created a comprehensive supporting ecosystem for the textile industry, which encompasses raw material production, textile machinery manufacturing, and efficient logistics networks. This integrated approach streamlines production processes and enhances overall efficiency.
• Technological advancement: The industry is increasingly embracing automation and advanced manufacturing technologies to improve productivity and product quality. Investments in research and development are driving innovation in areas like sustainable textile production and smart manufacturing.
Table: China’s market share
|
Metric |
Value |
Source |
|
Global textile and apparel market share |
31.6% (2023) |
Sheng Lu Fashion |
|
Total value of textile and apparel exports |
$164 billion (2023) |
Sheng Lu Fashion |
|
Domestic consumption of textile and apparel production |
70-80% |
Sheng Lu Fashion |
|
Number of R&D projects in the textile and apparel sector |
Over 10,000 (2022) |
Statista |
Despite facing challenges such as rising labor costs and increasing competition from other low cost countries, China's textile and apparel sector has shown resilience and adaptability. The industry is actively pursuing strategies to maintain its competitive edge.
The sector has shifted focus to higher-value products, moving away from basic garments, like functional apparel and fashion-forward designs. With growing demand for eco-friendly products, the industry is also investing in sustainable practices, such as recycled materials and reducing water and energy consumption. Also, Chinese textile and apparel companies are actively developing their own brands to enhance their global recognition and capture a larger share of the value chain.
China's commitment to further integrating its textile and apparel sector into the global supply chain is evident. The CISCE serves as a platform to showcase the industry's strengths, foster international collaborations, and explore new opportunities for growth. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, China's textile and apparel sector is poised to remain a vital thread in the fabric of the global economy.
A new report by Source Fashion and Insider Trends, recent changes to EU customs regulations could significantly impact sourcing operations for UK retailers.
The report, titled ‘The State of Sourcing Report: Sourcing and Sustainability in 2025’, is based on a survey of UK retailers of all sizes. It provides insights into current sourcing practices and sustainability trends in the retail industry. The report also includes data tables, quotes, and case studies from industry leaders.
Sourcing practices
• The majority of UK retailers (74 per cent) source internationally.
• China is the most popular sourcing region (49 per cent), followed by the UK (42 per cent), India (37 per cent), and Western Europe (33 per cent).
• Cost of production is the primary reason for choosing sourcing regions (46 per cent of respondents).
• Smaller companies are more likely to source from closer regions due to various factors like preference, shorter lead times, or barriers to sourcing from further afield.
The report highlights that in February 2024, the EU removed customs duty exemption for goods valued at less than €150. This change could potentially affect 2.3 billion items that were previously imported duty-free into the EU in 2023. The report suggests the new regulations could shift sourcing operations away from China towards other regions. While China remains attractive for its established production capabilities and supply chains, pressures on the country might make it less appealing. India, with its growing importance as a sourcing region, could be a potential alternative. The report includes case studies of companies like ASOS, Boohoo, and Asda's George fashion range, which have faced scrutiny over their sustainability claims. These cases highlight the need for clear guidance and collaboration within the industry to tackle sustainability challenges effectively.
The new EU customs regulations could have a significant impact on sourcing operations for UK retailers. The report recommends that retailers adopt a more agile approach to their supply chains and consider diversifying their sourcing regions. It also emphasizes the need for industry collaboration and clear guidance on sustainability practices.
Denim Premiere Vision 2024, held from December 4-5, saw over 2,600 visitors at SuperstudioPiu in Milan for the global denim event. This two-day gathering, under the patronage of the City of Milan, served as a platform for denim professionals to explore the latest trends, innovations, and sustainable practices shaping the denim sector for the Spring-Summer 26 season.
A hub for innovation and collaboration
Denim Premiere Vision continues to solidify its role as a key meeting point for global fashion brands, designers, manufacturers, and industry experts. The event’s success was reflected in the impressive attendance and its vibrant, collaborative atmosphere. Visitors had the opportunity to network with top industry players, explore cutting-edge denim collections, and gain insights into the future of denim design, production, and sustainability.
Florence Rousson, President of Premiere Vision, emphasized the industry's forward-thinking spirit: "Denim is evolving with unique versatility, from casual to sophisticated, and has become a cornerstone of the luxury sector. This edition embodied the collective energy and determination of our industry to drive innovation while addressing the challenges of sustainability."
Fostering dialogue and idea-sharing
The event was marked by dynamic conferences and Pitches, offering attendees valuable opportunities to engage with experts and learn about the latest technological advancements and sustainable initiatives in denim production. These sessions provided a platform for reflection, discussion, and the exchange of ideas to address the industry's evolving needs.
One of the key highlights was the Bioawake presentation by Orta, which showcased the future of eco-friendly denim production. Experts also discussed the transformation of washing, dyeing, and material management processes, with an emphasis on reducing environmental impact while maintaining quality. Andrea Venier’s ‘Zero PP’ concept also offered new insights into eliminating plastics from the denim production cycle.
The event's emphasis on innovation was coupled with a commitment to craftsmanship, particularly in the context of Italy's renowned denim manufacturing expertise. The discussions underscored the importance of blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technologies to create sustainable products.
Sustainability and fashion forward thinking
Sustainability was a central theme of this edition. The event presented solutions that aim to reduce the environmental footprint of denim manufacturing. One of the most notable discussions was led by Amy Leverton, founder of Denim Dudes, who explored the influence of pop culture, protest movements, and shifting societal values on denim design, manufacturing, and marketing. Leverton’s presentation underscored how cultural shifts will continue to shape the future of fashion.
In addition to sustainability, the conference program also focused on the sociocultural dynamics of the Middle Eastern market, offering insights into market entry strategies and growth prospects for denim in the region. A key theme was the role of women in revolutionizing fashion trends, with discussions highlighting how female figures are redefining stylistic and social norms in the industry.
Looking ahead: Trends for Spring-Summer 26
Denim experts, led by Juliet aMercerat, provided a preview of the Spring-Summer 26 season’s denim trends, outlining emerging stylistic and technical developments. These fashion seminars offered attendees a valuable opportunity to explore innovations in denim manufacturing, while also providing actionable insights for brands looking to stay ahead of the curve.
Key figures and global reach
Denim Premiere Vision 2024 saw the participation of 2,610 visitors, including fashion and accessory brand leaders, buyers, designers, and production managers from 14 countries, including Italy, France, Germany, the United States, and China. The event hosted 71 exhibitors, with a strong representation from denim spinners and weavers, manufacturers, and accessory producers. Additionally, 15 international hosted guests participated in strategic investment programs aimed at fostering key industry connections.
Looking forward to 2025
Denim Premiere Vision will return on May 21-22, 2025, for the Fall-Winter 26-27 season, continuing to serve as an essential hub for industry professionals to explore innovation, sustainability, and the future of fashion.
Zalando SE, the Berlin-based online fashion giant, has agreed to acquire rival About You Holding SE for €1.2 billion, marking a major step to solidify its dominance in Europe’s e-commerce market. The offer of €6.50 per share represents a 67 per cent premium to About You’s last closing price.
The acquisition, backed by About You's management and major shareholders, including the Otto family and Denmark’s Holch Povlsen, will expand Zalando’s share of Europe’s €450 billion fashion and lifestyle market. About You, founded in 2014, boasts 12 million monthly users and a portfolio of 700,000 items. Its Scayle platform, which supports retailers’ digital growth, complements Zalando’s Zeos system.
The two brands will operate independently, but synergies in logistics and operations are expected to yield €100 million annually. The deal, pending regulatory approval, aims to enhance business-to-business services and long-term profitability despite potential competition concerns.
The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO) commends the House of Representatives for passing the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation reinforces the Berry Amendment, mandating the Department of Defense (DOD) to procure 100 per cent USmade textiles and clothing, while introducing new measures to bolster domestic manufacturing.
Key provisions include authorizing the Secretary of Defense to establish pre-positioned stocks of defense textiles needed for contingency operations while developing plans to mitigate delays in ramping up supply. Additionally, the legislation enhances transparency for domestic nonavailability determinations (DNADs) by mandating annual public disclosure and requiring the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment to maintain and share a comprehensive DNAD list with Congress and industry.
“These provisions strengthen the domestic textile industry’s role in national defense,” said NCTO President and CEO Kim Glas. “The Berry Amendment supports a secure, USbased supply chain for critical defense materials, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers like China.”
US textile mills produce over 8,000 products annually for the military, including advanced uniforms and equipment valued at more than $1.8 billion. This industry ensures the highest quality goods for US armed forces while safeguarding national security through innovative, American-made materials.
Glas emphasized the strategic importance of the domestic textile industry, urging swift Senate approval of the NDAA. “A robust US textile base is essential for providing our military with the vital materials they need,” she said.
The NCTO looks forward to continued collaboration with policymakers to support American manufacturing and defense readiness.
Parent company of the fast fashion brand Zara, Inditex reported 10.5 per cent rise in sales to €27.4 billion during Q3, FY24. The brand’s profit after tax increased by 6 per cent Y-o-Y to €1.68 billion during the quarter, while revenues declined by 2 per cent below analysts’ expectations to €9.4 billion. Despite slightly missing consensus estimates, Inditex remains ahead of its competitor H&M, leveraging Zara's brand strength and trend-driven appeal.
Zara continues to consolidate its position through strategic expansions and collaborations. The brand opened a 7,500-sq-ft Zara Man store in Madrid, offering exclusive collections featuring natural materials like cotton and cashmere. This store also houses Zacaffè, a coffee shop reflecting local architectural styles, a concept already tested in Paris, Lisbon, and Dubai. New café locations are planned for Seoul and Osaka in 2025.
In addition, the Madrid Zara Man store created space for a Zara Apartment concept, launching next year with curated homewares. The brand also upgraded the floor space at its California and Florida stores for improved customer experiences.
Inditex is optimising its retail strategy by reducing store counts while expanding younger-skewing concepts like Pull & Bear. The company also launched a teen line, Z3D, within Zara.
Looking ahead, Inditex plans to upgrade its infrastructure with an investment of €1.8 billion. The company is set to open a logistics center in Zaragoza in 2025. It has also made an investment in Epoch Biodesign to develop AI-driven recycling solutions for polyester and mixed-textile collections.
Compared to the previous season, India’s total cotton production is estimated to decline by 4 lakh bales to 250 lakh bales in 2024-25. In 2023-24, India’s total cotton production had increased to Rs 254 lakh bales, as per a report by USDA. This decline in production of 4 lakh bales is attributed to a reduction in sowing area of approximately 14 lakh hectare and crop damage from natural calamities in certain regions.
Based on bales weighing 480 pounds (213 kg), the USDA report estimates, total available cotton stocks in India are likely to be around 366 lakh bales. These will include 93 lakh bales of outstanding stock, 250 lakh bales from domestic production, and 23 lakh bales of imports.
In terms of consumption, 260 lakh bales are expected to be used domestically, while 13 lakh bales are likely to be exported, with the remaining 93 lakh bales to remain as surplus stock by the end of the season.
In comparison, India had a starting stock of 108.20 lakh bales during the 2023-24 season. It produced 254 lakh bales and imported 8.90 lakh bales.
Domestic consumption totaled 255 lakh bales, and exports amounted to 23.10 lakh bales, leaving a surplus stock of 93 lakh bales at the season's close.
The USDA’s surplus stock estimate has been questioned by India’s Cotton Association, which believes the figure is higher than expected.
Globe Textiles India’s Q2, FY24 net sales increased by 33.44 per cent to Rs 147.96 crore as against Rs 110.88 crore in Q2, FY23.
The company’s net profit increased by 106.37 per cent to Rs. 3.55 crore during the quarter ended September 2024 as against Rs 1.72 crore in the quarter ended September 2023. Its EBITDA rose by 28.59 per cent to Rs 9.31 crore during the quarter as against Rs. 7.24 crore during Q2, FY23 ended September 2023.
Globe Textiles’ EPS increased to Rs. 0.13 in September 2024 from Rs. 0.06 in September 2023. This growth is attributed to the company’s operational efficiency, optimised product mix, and expanded garment processing capacity. Focusing on sustainability, the company incorporates features like a Zero Liquid Discharge system and solar energy in their operations
A prominent player n the Indian textile industry, Globe Textiles India specialises in a wide range of products such as denim and non-denim fabrics, shirting fabrics, printed fabrics, home textiles, and garments for men and women. For Autumn/Winter 2024-2025, the company offers innovative products, including premium denim, dyed shirting fabrics, and a variety of printed textiles, showcasing a blend of style and sustainability.
Record attendance and strong feedback highlight Expo’s growth
The Global Sourcing Expo (GSE) in Melbourne has concluded with outstanding success, attracting more than 4,700 visitors and showcasing a diverse array of Australian fashion and retail brands. The event, held from November 19 to 21, demonstrated significant growth, with total visits increasing by 29 per cent compared to 2023, and unique visits rising by 24 per cent. The Expo, which featured over 1,000 exhibitors from 20 countries, has proven to be a key platform for international suppliers and local buyers to network, share insights, and strengthen business relationships.
According to the Expo’s organizers, 95 per cent of visitors held decision-making authority or could make recommendations, highlighting the event's value for industry leaders. Moreover, 83 per cent of attendees attended to discover new manufacturers, products, or sourcing regions, reinforcing the event's relevance in today's globalized marketplace.
Marie Kinsella, CEO of the International Expo Group, emphasized the growing demand for an event that unites global suppliers and buyers. "The steady year-on-year increase in visitors is a clear indication of the value that the Expo provides in bringing the industry together for networking, knowledge-sharing, and relationship building," Kinsella said. "Even just days after the event, we’ve already received several repeat exhibitor inquiries for the 2025 Expo, with participants providing positive feedback on their return on investment."
Exhibitor and attendee feedback reflect event’s success
Exhibitors and attendees alike praised the organization and value of the event. One exhibitor noted, "The event was exceptionally well-organized, and the support from the team was outstanding. The venue was excellent, and the foot traffic was great, leading to valuable interactions and exposure." Another attendee shared their appreciation for the Expo's diverse range of international exhibitors, saying it was "a great platform for sourcing goods and connecting with suppliers from various marketsall under one roof."
The event also included the co-located Footwear & Accessories Show and the China Clothing Textiles Accessories Expo, which further expanded the range of exhibitors and products. Visitors appreciated the opportunity to meet suppliers face-to-face, allowing for more personalized interactions and a deeper understanding of product quality and offerings.
Additionally, industry trade associations such as the Handloom Export Promotion Council India and the Taiwan Textile Federation were present, offering valuable insights and resources for both exhibitors and visitors. These partnerships highlight the Expo’s role in fostering connections across multiple sectors within the fashion and retail industry.
Global Sourcing Seminars provide insight into key industry trends
The Expo's success was further enhanced by its Global Sourcing Seminar program, which brought together over 30 industry experts to discuss pressing issues and trends, such as AI in manufacturing, clothing recycling, and sourcing strategies. Kinsella noted, “Each session was well-attended and provided invaluable perspectives from the best in the industry.”
These seminars allowed attendees to gain crucial knowledge on the future of sourcing, equipping them with the tools needed to stay ahead of evolving market demands.
Looking ahead to the 2025 Global Sourcing Expo
As the 2024 GSE event calendar concludes, the focus now turns to the 2025 expos. The International Expo Group has already announced the dates for the 2025 events: Sydney will host the Expo from June 17–19 at the ICC, while Melbourne will follow with its event from November 18–20 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.
Kinsella concluded, "It’s our goal to continue to offer the Expo as a destination where the sourcing and buying market can find global partners, suppliers, and innovative products to enhance their supply chains and business strategies." The 2024 Expo's success has set the stage for even greater things in 2025, ensuring the event remains a vital component of the global sourcing and fashion industries.
Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, a pioneer in spider silk-based fibers, announced aninnovative achievement of producing over 1,200 pounds of recombinant spider silk cocoons in the past year. This milestone exceeds the cumulative production of all previous years, highlighting significant advancements in scaling sustainable spider silk production.
This record output was made possible by Kraig Labs innovative hybrid spider silk production strain, which reengineers silkworms to generate spider silk-based fibers. The breakthrough showcases the Company’s ability to transition laboratory innovations into scalable manufacturing solutions.
“We are thrilled to announce this major production milestone, reflecting our team’s dedication to optimizing spider silk production,” said Kim Thompson, Founder and CEO of Kraig Labs. “This achievement marks a pivotal step toward meeting the global demand for performance fibers in diverse consumer markets.”
Kraig Labs continues to focus on developing a scalable and sustainable production model, reinforcing its leadership position in recombinant spider silk manufacturing. The Company’s success paves the way for expanded production capabilities and the commercialization of eco-friendly, high-performance silk fibers designed for a wide range of applications.
This milestone affirms Kraig Labs' role in shaping the future of sustainable performance materials, aligning innovation with growing global demand.
