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Cascale, formerly known as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, has unveiled the latest iteration of the Higg Brand and Retail Module (BRM), a pivotal component of the Higg Index suite of tools. This update underscores Cascale's unwavering commitment to advancing and refining sustainability standards within the textile, apparel, and footwear sectors.
The Higg BRM serves as a primary framework tailored specifically for brands and retailers to assess and enhance their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance. By evaluating 11 critical impact areas across global value chains, the tool promotes a comprehensive approach to sustainability management.
Developed in collaboration with Worldly, a leading platform for environmental and social impact data in the apparel and footwear industries, the Higg BRM 2023 update introduces subtle yet significant enhancements. These include refined guidance, integration of new social metrics, and an adaptive framework aligned with the swiftly evolving sustainability landscape.
Maravillas Rodriguez Zarco, senior director of Higg Index Strategy & Operations at Cascale, emphasized the community-driven nature of the Higg BRM, positioning it as a beacon guiding industry stakeholders toward sustainable practices. Zarco highlighted its compatibility with prominent sustainability frameworks like the Textile Exchange's Material Benchmark and the ZDHC Brands to Zero program.
The updated Higg BRM offers several benefits, including streamlined corporate sustainability strategies, avoidance of redundancy in sustainability initiatives, and support for reporting obligations. Notably, upgraded benchmarking capabilities provide a holistic view of companies' performance, enabling identification of emerging trends and avenues for improvement.
Cascale's journey to enhance the Higg BRM involved an extensive discovery phase in 2022, including consultations with industry stakeholders and evaluation of multiple assessment frameworks. Collaborations with key industry players such as Textile Exchange, ZDHC, Fair Wear, and STTI informed the development process, resulting in a refined, industry-specific ESG framework.
A verification pilot conducted in 2023 with Cascale member brands and verifier bodies underscored the organization's commitment to data accuracy and industry relevance. To facilitate understanding and adoption of the updated tool, Cascale will host a members-only webinar, showcasing key features and outlining future enhancements.
The launch of the enhanced Higg BRM signifies a pivotal step in advancing sustainability within the fashion industry, empowering stakeholders to drive meaningful change towards a more sustainable future.
The recently concluded Bharat Tex 2024, held from February 26th to 29th in New Delhi, lived up to its name as the "largest textile event in 2024." The mega event, organized by a consortium of textile export promotion councils and supported by the Ministry of Textiles, served as a vibrant platform showcasing India's textile prowess and fostering global connections.
A showcase of innovation
One of the event's key highlights was the plethora of exciting product launches from various textile and apparel companies. Here's a glimpse into some of the innovations that stole the show
Sustainability in focus: Eco-consciousness remained a central theme, with several companies showcasing sustainable fabrics and technologies. A leading manufacturer Nature Textiles unveiled its new line of organic cotton clothing, emphasizing traceability and ethical sourcing. GreenFab presented their innovative recycled polyester fabrics.
Tech meets textiles: The event witnessed the convergence of textile and technology, with companies introducing smart fabrics equipped with features like temperature regulation and self-cleaning properties. SmartWeave launched their range of smart clothing integrated with temperature regulation technology, while TechTex showcased their advancements in functional fabrics for athletic wear.
Fashion forward: Leading fashion houses like Bombay Dyeing and Fabindia presented their new collections, drawing inspiration from both traditional Indian textiles and contemporary trends.
Handloom heritage: Many companies presented their collections that blended traditional weaving and embroidery techniques with contemporary designs, catering to the growing demand for authentic yet modern textiles. Several handloom companies, including those specializing in iconic weaves like Kanchipuram silk and Pochampalli Ikat, showcased their exquisite craftsmanship, highlighting the rich heritage of Indian textiles.
Building collaborations
Bharat Tex 2024 wasn't just about product launches. The event facilitated crucial business interactions and collaborations as well.
Government-to-Government (G2G) meetings fostered international trade partnerships and explore potential collaborations in the textile sector. For example, the Textiles Committee, under the Ministry of Textiles, Government e-Marketplace (GeM), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE), Department of Public Enterprises, signed a MoU to promote upcycled products made from textile waste and scrap. Through these MoUs, GeM will collaborate with stakeholders in the upcycling ecosystem, particularly underserved seller groups, to enable them direct market connections in public procurement, without middlemen, via #Vocalforlocal GeM Outlet Stores. These businesses will feature recycled things manufactured from textile waste and trash.
Business-to-Business (B2B) networking sessions provided a platform for companies to connect, share ideas, and explore potential business opportunities. Knowledge sharing sessions saw industry experts and thought leaders conducting insightful sessions on various topics, including sustainability practices, technological advancements in the textile industry, and future market trends.
Bharat Tex 2024 concluded with a sense of accomplishment, having brought together stakeholders from across the textile value chain. The event served as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and growth, solidifying India's position as a global leader in the textile industry.
Marking the third consecutive month of year-on-year increase, Pakistan's textile exports grew by 20 per cent Y-o-Y to $1.41 billion in February this year as compared to $1.18 billion in the same period last year, shows provisional data released by the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA).
However, Pakistan’s textile exports for the first eight months of the fiscal year 2023-2024 declined by 1per cent to $11.15 billion.
Pakistan’s monthly textile exports also declined by over 3 per cent compared to January, which recorded $1.46 billion in exports.
Textiles form a significant portion of Pakistan’s exports as they enable the country to address foreign exchange shortages.
According to the latest data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), textile group exports decreased by approximately 2.99 per cent during the first seven months (July-January) of the current fiscal year, amounting to $9.738 billion compared to $10.038 billion during the same period in 2022-23.
In a letter addressed to Muhammad Ali, Caretaker Minister for Energy, APTMA urged authorities to eliminate cross-subsidies to nonproductive sectors. The association warned that without urgent corrective measures, over 50 per cent of firms in the textiles and apparel sector could cease operations in the coming weeks.
The association highlighted the continuous erosion of Pakistan's textiles and apparel exports in international competitiveness due to increasing energy prices, which are, on average, over twice those in competing countries. It urged authorities to address this issue promptly.
Pakistan's hosiery exports to China surged by 45 per cent in 2023, as per a report by Gwadar Pro
Pakistan’s hosiery and cotton footwear exports combined surged by 51 per cent during the year to $11.55 million compared to $7.61 million in 2022, notes Muhammad Irfan, Trade and Investment Counselor, Consulate General of Pakistan.
This surge not only underscores the strengthening trade ties between the two nations but also highlights Pakistan's growing prominence in the global textile market, adds Irfan.
According to him, the growth could be attributed to several factors including supply of good quality products and cost-effectiveness. In 2023, Pakistan exported hosiery products worth over $14.32 million to China, compared to $9.81 million in 2022.
The participation of the largest Chinese delegation in Texpo, one of Pakistan's largest textile exhibitions held last year, also facilitated this increase in Pakistan's exports to China. The upcoming Texpo exhibition in 2024 is expected to fuel further growth in bilateral trade between the two countries. .
The momentum gained from this surge will enable Pakistan to capitalise on the evolving dynamics o international trade and enhance its economic standing on the global stage, avers Irfan. The surge in hosiery exports to China will boost the country’s export earnings, bolster foreign exchange reserves, create employment opportunities, and stimulate growth in the domestic textile sector, he adds.
Asia's leading technical textiles and nonwovens trade fair, Cinte Techtextil China will be held from September 19-21, 2024, at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. The event is a vital platform for domestic and international companies in the industry.
The 2023 edition featured 467 exhibitors and 15,542 visitors from over 13 countries and regions. This year, the show will see the return of the German Pavilion and a focus on innovation and sustainability, with seminars and displays on these topics.
Cinte Techtextil China is vital for connecting with the Chinese market, says Markus Müller, Reifenhäuser Reicofil. It allows us to explore, meet people, and see different fields, he adds.
The event is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK), the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT, and the China Nonwovens & Industrial Textiles Association (CNITA).
Durak Tekstil is poised to unveil an impressive lineup of innovative products for sewing and embroidery at Texprocess 2024.
The product range to be showcased by the company includes a diverse array of yarns, each meticulously crafted for specific applications, underscoring the company's unwavering commitment to innovation and quality.
Among the highlights are the high-strength Duma-Duraless and Durabobbins yarns, engineered for unparalleled durability and performance. Also in the spotlight is the Durak SilverPro conductive yarn, infusing textiles with functionality, and the Durak Redolent scented yarn, elevating fabrics with a sensory experience.
For industries prioritising safety, Durak Tekstil offers the Fire Safe Aramid yarn and Cut Safe yarn, delivering fire-resistant and high cut-resistant options respectively. Additionally, the stand will showcase an array of innovative threads including UV, WR, AS, ASK, and OS threads, along with specialty products like the Milky Way glow-in-the-dark embroidery thread, reflective thread, and CFR threads.
Sustainability takes center stage with Durak Tekstil's Eco thread group, featuring natural fibers such as Lyosense and Lyostitch threads made of lyocell fiber, and Duracotton Bio, crafted from organic cotton.
Yiğit Durak, Board Member and Marketing Director, Durak Tekstil, says the company’s focus on global market growth will be particularly evident at Texprocess 2024.
By spotlighting their innovative products and engaging with potential partners, Durak Tekstil will solidify its position as an industry leader during the exhibition, he adds.
Currently valued at $425.5 billion in 2022, the global activewear market is expected to reach $771.8 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.2 per cent from 2023 to 2032.
As per a report by Allied Market Research, an increase in awareness regarding the benefits of engaging in sports activities has led to the rise in popularity of fitness and sports apparel and footwear, particularly among young people.
Educational systems worldwide have also contributed to the expansion of the fitness industry by integrating physical activities into school curricula. They have launched various initiatives promoting fitness, health, and sports education to enhance youth engagement and interest in sports activities.
Additionally, government-sponsored competitions at various levels have encouraged participation and fostered interest in sports among young people, thereby driving the demand for sports and fitness-related products.
According to the report, the global activewear market is segmented based on product type, fabric, gender, distribution channel, and region. On the basis of product type, the fashion outer, pants, and T-shirts segment dominated the activewear industry in 2022 and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period.
By fabric, the polyester segment led the global activewear market demand in 2022 and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period. On the basis of gender, the women segment led the global market in 2022 and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period.
On the basis of distribution channel, the offline segment dominated the global market in 2022 and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the activewear market forecast period.
Region wise, North America accounted for the highest market share in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.9 per cent.
In February, Indian cotton exports are poised to reach the highest level in two years, fueled by a surge in global prices, which has made Indian cotton appealing to Asian buyers. Contracts for 400,000 bales have been signed, primarily with China, Bangladesh, and Vietnam.
India is projected to export 2 million bales in the 2023/24 marketing year, surpassing earlier expectations. However, the Cotton Association of India (CAI) predicts a 7.7 per cent decline in India's cotton production to 29.41 million bales in 2023/24, the lowest since 2007/08. The CAI maintains its pressing estimate at 294.10 lakh bales, with the total cotton supply estimated at 210.05 lakh bales till January.
On a global level, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported a significant 69 per cent decrease in net sales for 2023/2024 compared to the previous week, along with an 83 per cent drop from the prior 4-week average. The USDA's February WASDE report projected a 355,000 bales lower world cotton production in 2023/24, with decreases in Australia and Benin offsetting minor increases elsewhere. World cotton ending stocks for 2023/24 are nearly 700,000 bales lower than January, reflecting reduced beginning stocks and production, while world consumption is forecasted to remain relatively stable.
A stalwart in the Indian textile industry, ColossusTex unveiled its latest innovation ‘Graphene Yarn’ at the Bharat Tex 2024 trade show in New Delhi.
Boasting an impressive antibacterial rate of 99 per cent, this textile innovation offers a potent shield against odors and skin diseases. Infused with far-infrared healthcare technology, the Graphene Yarn actively promotes microcirculation on the body's surface while demonstrating antiviral properties.
In addition to Graphene Yarn, ColossusTex unveiled three other novel yarns: Cotlook, Magic Sparkle, and Silkshine. These innovative products have been specifically designed to address textile waste in the carpet industry, aligning with ColossusTex's commitment to eco-sustainable production practices. Each yarn offers unique features and functionalities aimed at enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and sustainability of textile products.
With its rich legacy and unwavering dedication to innovation, ColossusTex continues to redefine the textile landscape in India and beyond. Through the introduction of pioneering products like Graphene Yarn and its ongoing pursuit of sustainability, ColossusTex remains at the forefront of shaping a more resilient and responsible textile industry
During the prestigious Bharat Tex 2024 expo held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, the Central Silk Board (CSB) inked ten significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements marked pivotal collaborations and advancements in the textile sector, underscoring the Union Ministry of Textiles' initiatives.
Among the notable MoUs was the pivotal agreement facilitating the transfer of commercialisation rights for two groundbreaking innovations engineered by the Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute (CSRTI), Mysuru. Spearheading this endeavor was Dr Gandhi Doss S, Director, CSRTI, who orchestrated the acquisition. The innovations encompassed a Solid Bio
Formulation designed to combat root rot, developed under the leadership of Dr Arunakumar G S, Scientist-C, and the revolutionary chitin/chitosan extraction process from sericulture waste, pioneered by Dr Madhusudan K N, Scientist D, along with Mr Pro.
The MOU signing ceremony welcomed distinguished guests, including the Darshana Vikram Jardoshi, Union Minister of State for Textiles, who graced the occasion as the chief guest. Rachana Shah, IAS, Secretary Textiles, and Prajyakta L Verma, Joint Secretary, Textiles (Natural Fibers), added to the grandeur of the event with their presence.
Notable figures from the Central Silk Board and CSRTI were also in attendance to witness the historic agreements unfold. P Sivakumar, the Member Secretary and CEO, Central Silk Board, Bengaluru, Dr Mathira Moorthy S, Director (Tech), CSB-Bengaluru, and Dr Madhusudhan K N, Scientist – D, contributed their expertise and support to the momentous occasion.
Chamarajanagar-based Azymus Life Science and Rainbow Agrotech, located in Kadapa, emerged as key stakeholders by acquiring technologies related to chitin/chitosan extraction and Mr Pro technologies, respectively.
