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In a pioneering stride towards sustainable materials, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) researchers have unveiled a technique to engineer spider silk protein from discarded plastics. Published in Microbial Cell Factories, the study introduces a novel strain of Pseudomonas bacteria adept at transforming depolymerized polyethylene into targeted recombinant proteins.
This innovation holds promise in addressing the burgeoning plastic waste crisis plaguing the planet. With global plastic accumulation reaching critical levels and contaminating food and water supplies with microplastics, the urgency for effective waste management solutions is paramount.
Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, a frontrunner in recombinant spider silk production, lauds RPI's endeavors. CEO Kim Thompson commends the environmentally conscious approach, emphasizing the potential of such technologies to mitigate plastic pollution. While Kraig Labs' methodology differs, centered on genetically modified silkworms yielding spider silk cocoons, both initiatives share a common goal of eco-friendly silk production through molecular biology.
As Kraig Labs gears up for the 2024 silk production season, their CEO and top sericulture expert are actively strategizing in Southeast Asia to expand production capabilities, underscoring their commitment to sustainable innovation.
The Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) has urged the government to revise its present Textile Policy and introduce a separate five-year ‘Apparel Policy’, to detach the garment sector from textiles and grant it independent status.
PRGMEA made this proposal on the verge of expiration of Pakistan’s GSP Plus status and the emergence of new opportunities as mentioned in US International Trade Commission’s (USITC) forthcoming report on the competitiveness of Pakistan’s apparel industry.
Emphasising on the significance of this move, Mubashar Naseer Butt, Central Chairman, PRGMEA noted its potential to boost apparel exports from Pakistan, especially considering the rise in apparel imports by the US from the country. Butt emphasised on the need for aligning the sector with global standards, as evident in the EU’s singular demand for apparel products over raw materials or fabrics.
Replying to a recent query on Pakistan’s exports mainly comprising raw materials instead of finished products, Butt highlighted. Pakistan’s robust textile industry encompasses a comprehensive industrial chain from raw cotton to garment manufacturing. It is important to present a compelling case before the USITC to pave the way for enhanced apparel exports, he said
Butt proposed the establishment of a federal-level Apparel Council to formulate sector-specific policies, essential for sustaining textile exports. Emphasising on the divergent challenges faced by the garment sector, he also highlighted its labor-intensive nature and significant employment generation capacity compared to the textile industry.
Smaller- than-anticipated decline in sales has helped the world’s second largest-listed fashion retailer H&M exceed forecasts for first-quarter operating profit.
Surpassing analyst expectations in an LSEG poll, the Swedish company reported an operating profit of $196 million during the quarter.
Although sales declined by 2 per cent, it was better than what analysts had predicted. Additionally, the brand’s sales at the beginning of the second quarter rose by 2 per cent, indicating resurgence in demand for its apparel and accessories.
Daniel Erver, CEO, states, the gradual improvement in quarter's sales during February with well-received Spring collections is a positive sign of the brand being on the right track.
Further, the company aims to achieve a 10 per cent operating profit margin by the end of the year. Erver also faces the challenge of demonstrating H&M's ability to increase profitability while restoring sales growth.
Renowned for jeans priced at $19.99 and dresses under $15, H&M also offers higher-priced items such as leather trousers priced at over $300 and coats under its Cos brand that can cost as much as $1,190.
Uniqlo and Inès de la Fressange have decided to end their partnership after collaborating for nearly a decade to launch seasonal fashion capsules.
Operating under the Fast Retailing umbrella, Uniqlo plans to end this partnership with the duo’s final joint Spring/Summer 2024 collection. Set to launch on April 11, this collection highlights the timeless chic of Parisian style, a hallmark of the former model and French creator.
The final collection will feature iconic pieces from de la Fressange's catalogue, including a trench coat, a cotton shirt, a Breton-style knit top, and a flared skirt crafted from a linen and cotton blend. Prices for these pieces will range between 20.99 and 79.99 euros.
Uniqlo has engaged in several long-term collaborations with artistic directors with its partnership with de la Freesange lasting for the longest period. Some of the designers’ other partnerships include those with designer Christophe Lemaire, who has overseen the Uniqlo U collection since 2016, and British designer Clare Waight Keller, who has designed a fresh wardrobe for Spring/Summer 2024 (dubbed 'Uniqlo C').
MarediModa Miami is shaking up the Swim Week calendar on the South East Coast. Previously held as a separate event, MarediModa will now be integrated into Cabana Miami Beach, the premier swimwear trade show. This strategic move signifies a powerful union, placing the spotlight on the exceptional quality and creative spirit of European-made fabrics.
The collaboration, set for June 1-3, 2024, signifies a pivotal moment for the global swimwear industry. Claudio Taiana, President of MarediModa, expresses excitement about advancing their presence in Miami alongside Cabana, known for its exceptional standards.
Cabana attendees will be treated to an exclusive preview of summer 2026 beachwear trends. A select group of fabric and accessory companies, hailing from the prestigious MarediModa Cannes trade show, will showcase their latest creations. Attendees can expect to discover innovative, sustainable, and ethically-sourced collections that prioritize traceability and high creative value.
This partnership caters to the industry's growing focus on social responsibility and ethical practices. MarediModa brings a fresh perspective to Florida, offering an alternative to mass-produced trends while staying ahead of the curve on evolving industry needs.
By combining MarediModa's European expertise with Cabana's established reputation, this collaboration promises to be a game-changer for Swim Week. It creates a one-stop shop for top brands seeking cutting-edge, high-quality fabrics that prioritize sustainability and ethical production. This focus on innovation and responsibility positions the event as a leader in shaping the future of swimwear design.
From Apr’23-Feb’24, India recorded a decline in its textile exports, as per the data by government sources. The sources attributed this decline to lack of international demand and geographical challenges like the Red Sea conflict.
Additional factors such as order flow, inventory management, and the availability of shipping containers and vessels, also seems to have influenced India’s textile exports during the period, influencing export figures.
The value of readymade garments exports dwindled to $13.05 billion during the mentioned period, down from $14.73 billion the previous year. Similarly, yarn shipments decreased from $4.47 billion to $4.23 billion, while jute exports fell from $400 million to $310 million. However, in Feb’24, India’s textile exports grew by 12 per cent compared to the same period in 2023.
Meanwhile, textile exports had declined in Jan’24 on account of a 20 per cent increase in shipment costs and a two-week extension in turnaround time, attributed to reduced services by two private shipping lines amid the Red Sea crisis.
An inter-ministerial panel convened multiple meetings to devise strategies to address the repercussions of the ongoing conflict. The responsibility of ensuring uninterrupted credit flow to exporters was given to the Department of Financial Services (DFS), while the Ministry of Shipping was asked to closely monitor trade volumes.
From Apr’23-Feb’24, India recorded a decline in its textile exports, as per the data by government sources. The sources attributed this decline to lack of international demand and geographical challenges like the Red Sea conflict.
Additional factors such as order flow, inventory management, and the availability of shipping containers and vessels, also seems to have influenced India’s textile exports during the period, influencing export figures.
The value of readymade garments exports dwindled to $13.05 billion during the mentioned period, down from $14.73 billion the previous year. Similarly, yarn shipments decreased from $4.47 billion to $4.23 billion, while jute exports fell from $400 million to $310 million. However, in Feb’24, India’s textile exports grew by 12 per cent compared to the same period in 2023.
Meanwhile, textile exports had declined in Jan’24 on account of a 20 per cent increase in shipment costs and a two-week extension in turnaround time, attributed to reduced services by two private shipping lines amid the Red Sea crisis.
An inter-ministerial panel convened multiple meetings to devise strategies to address the repercussions of the ongoing conflict. The responsibility of ensuring uninterrupted credit flow to exporters was given to the Department of Financial Services (DFS), while the Ministry of Shipping was asked to closely monitor trade volumes.
Attractive prices are boosting India’s cotton exports to global markets such as Bangladesh, China and Vietnam.
Starting the 2023-24 season strong, India’s cotton exports hit 15 lakh bales in October 2023, matching the entire marketing season of 2022-23 at 15.5 lakh bales.
This led to the Cotton Association of India (CAI) revising export projections for the current season to 22 lakh bales, with expectations of reaching 25 lakh bales.
Priced at Rs 4,000-5,000 per candy, Indian cotton is cheaper than international rates, which resulted in shipments of 10 lakh bales during Jan-Feb’24.
CAI has also revised cotton production estimates upwards by 5 per cent to 309.70 lakh bales for the current season. Cotton consumption estimates have also been revised to 317 lakh bales. Cotton stock are estimated to be restricted to 20 lakh bales by September, leading to experts predicting a limited supply in the near future..
Consolidating India's position as a key player in the global cotton market, the domestic cotton industry is booming with rising exports, competitive pricing, and adjustments in production and consumption estimates.
A new report by Wazir Advisors reveals a significant decline in apparel imports across major global markets in January 2024 compared to the same period last year. The US, EU, UK, and Japan all witnessed double-digit drops, with the US leading the decline at 16.53 per cent to $6.04 billion.
This slump in imports coincides with a complex economic picture. While US consumer confidence dipped in February, apparel store sales surged 10 per cent compared to February 2023. This suggests a market clearing out existing inventory, potentially paving the way for a rebound in imports later in the year.
Global import slump
The report highlights a widespread slowdown in apparel imports. The EU saw a 20 per cent year-on-year decline to $6.6 billion, while the UK and Japan experienced drops of 18 per cent and 14 per cent respectively, reaching $1.4 billion and $1.9 billion.
US Market: Inventory clearance or long-term shift?
The US market presents a fascinating case. Despite a decline in consumer confidence and rising inflation, apparel store sales rose in February. This could indicate a period of aggressive inventory clearance by retailers. Wazir Advisors analysts forecast a potential rebound in US apparel imports based on this trend. With lower inventory levels and sustained consumer demand, the US market could see a rise in imports in the coming months.
Other markets
The report offers limited data on other markets. The UK, for instance, saw a modest decline in apparel sales, suggesting a different dynamic at play compared to the US. Further analysis is needed to understand the specific factors influencing individual markets.
India's apparel trade
While the report focuses on global trends, it also includes a snapshot of India's apparel trade. India's apparel exports witnessed a modest 1 per cent increase in February, reaching $1.4 billion. Conversely, apparel imports into India dropped significantly by 23% to $109 million in January.
Wazir Advisors' report doesn't offer an explicit forecast, but the data points towards a potential rebound in the US apparel market. Lower import figures coupled with rising sales suggest that existing inventory is being cleared, paving the way for renewed demand and potentially higher imports in the coming months. However, factors like consumer confidence and inflation will play a crucial role in shaping the market's trajectory.
Green Theme Technologies (GTT), renowned for its Empel water-free and PFAS-free textile finishing platform, has marked another milestone in its growth trajectory through a strategic partnership with Hwasung International, a leading Korean-based global textile innovator. This collaboration sees Hwasung becoming the first Korean mill to integrate Empel technology into its offerings, catering to both global footwear giants and regional clients.
Traditionally, sustainability in textile finishes often came at the cost of performance. However, GTT's Empel platform defies this notion, as highlighted by Martin Flora, GTT's President of Global Business Development. He emphasizes that Empel not only enhances sustainability but also bolsters performance, presenting a win-win scenario for manufacturers, partner brands, and the environment.
Empel's versatility extends across various textile sectors, including outdoor gear, high fashion, footwear, automotive, and military applications. By eliminating water from the treatment process, Empel not only enhances sustainability but also aids in reducing pollution and waste in textile manufacturing.
DK Lee, President of Hwasung International, lauds Empel's compatibility with their innovative textiles, which merge sustainability with cutting-edge solutions.
With Hwasung International onboard, GTT strengthens its position in combating textile-related water pollution and eliminating harmful chemicals from global supply chains. This partnership underscores a collective commitment to sustainable practices in the textile industry, marking a significant step towards a greener future.
Green Theme Technologies, Inc. (GTT) is a US-based textile innovation company committed to enhancing performance and reducing pollution worldwide. Their Empel textile finishing platform offers water-free and PFAS-free solutions that surpass existing technologies in water repellency, stain-release, and anti-wick properties. Empel ensures exceptional durability, extending the lifespan of textiles and products it treats.
