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Apparel Group and Aldo have teamed up to launch a limited-edition Artist Series collection across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Available in select stores, this exclusive collection features 16 unique pieces created in collaboration with four international artists.
Offering sneakers, handbags, and graphic tees, the collection merges art with fashion. The artists featured in this collection include Timothy Goodman, known for his typographic style that explores themes of human connection, digital artist Hyperthalamuscorp whose vibrant 3D work reflects personal growth, Dubai-based multi-disciplinary artist Dina Sami who celebrates her heritage with symbols like the palm tree and Montreal-based street artist Whatisadam who blends Canadian references with comic-inspired visuals.
Neeraj Teckchandani, CEO, Apparel Group, notes, this series is a testament to the group’s commitment to offering customers more than just fashion; it's about bringing culture, art, and individuality into every retail experience.
Daianara Grullon Amalfitano, Chief Brand and Product Officer, Aldo, states, the collaboration celebrates global artistry and personal expression and continues the brand's long-standing tradition of supporting the arts.
As per the August 2025 ‘Cotton This Month’ report by the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC), global cotton production is projected to outpace consumption for the 2025-26 season. The report, which includes data and projections, highlights the dominance of India, China, Brazil, and Bangladesh in the upcoming season. Global production is estimated at 25.9 million tonnes, slightly exceeding the projected consumption of 25.6 million tonnes, with trade holding steady at 9.7 million tonnes.
Cotton season 2025-26 projections
The projections reveal a dynamic, interconnected global market where traditional powerhouses consolidate their dominance and emerging trade shifts reshape the landscape. India is expected to maintain its long-standing role as the global leader in cotton acreage. With 38 per cent of the world’s total area under cotton cultivation, the country continues to rely heavily on its vast agricultural land base, underscoring its strategic commitment to the cotton economy—even as productivity remains a focal challenge in comparison to other major producers.
Meanwhile, China is expected to retain its dual distinction: as both the world’s largest cotton producer and most voracious consumer. The country is projected to account for 24 per cent of global cotton output, but more strikingly, it will consume 8.2 million tonnes, 32 per cent of the world’s total usage. This reflects the enduring strength of China’s textile manufacturing sector, which, despite growing competition and environmental pressures, remains a global engine of cotton demand.
On the trade front, Bangladesh is forecast to emerge as the leading cotton importer for the season. Responsible for 19 per cent of all global imports, the country’s thriving ready-made garment (RMG) sector continues to drive its massive raw cotton needs—most of which must be met from abroad due to negligible domestic cultivation.
At the same time, Brazil is expected to rise to the top of the export charts. The South American agricultural giant is set to ship out 32 per cent of the world’s cotton exports, a testament to its increasingly efficient production systems and aggressive expansion into global markets.
Finally, the ICAC Secretariat’s price forecast for 2025-26 indicates a wide trading band, reflecting market uncertainties and potential volatility. Prices are expected to range from 57 to 94 cents per pound, with a midpoint forecast of 73 cents. This spread suggests sensitivity to factors such as global demand fluctuations, weather events, and trade policy changes. Together, these projections set the stage for a season shaped by both stability in leadership and evolving dynamics in trade—signaling another chapter in the complex, ever-changing story of global cotton.
Table: Global cotton leaders 2025-26
|
Category |
Projected leader |
Global percentage/vVolume |
|
Area |
India |
38% |
|
Production |
China |
24% |
|
Consumption |
China |
32% (8.2 million tonnes) |
|
Importers |
Bangladesh |
19% |
|
Exporters |
Brazil |
32% |
Leading cotton lint producers in 2024-25 estimate vs. 2025-26 projection
Based on the ICAC data, a slight shift in market share is projected among the top cotton producers. While China and India remain the top two, India is expected to increase its share, while China's share is projected to decrease slightly. The positions of other key producers like Brazil, the US, and Pakistan are expected to remain stable.
Table: Year wise comparison of cotton lint producers
|
Country |
Estimate 2024-25 |
Projection 2025-26 |
|
China |
25% |
24% |
|
India |
20% |
21% |
|
Brazil |
15% |
14% |
|
US |
12% |
12% |
|
Pakistan |
5% |
5% |
|
Others |
23% |
24% |
The Gujarat government has issued new guidelines for industrial incentives under the Gujarat Textile Policy 2024, extending benefits to textile units located in GIDC-notified areas within cities. This decision follows a request from the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI).
The guidelines were announced by Balvantsinh Rajput, Industries Minister at the Valsad district collector's office. They include textile units in GIDC-notified urban areas now being eligible for government incentive schemes as per Ashok Jirawala, Vice President, SGCCI. The guidelines also include composite units that handle the entire process from spinning to fabric production, a move expected to significantly boost the state's textile industry.
The policy will also recognize groups of at least 20 women as a Self-Help Group (SHG) for self-employment initiatives. Each member will be eligible for a monthly benefit of up to Rs 5,000.
Nikhil Madrasi, President, SGCCI noted, the policy aims to boost investment in the textile sector, promote women's empowerment, and create new job opportunities in both rural and urban areas.
Faruque Hassan, President, Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), has urged global quality assurance provider Intertek to help promote Bangladesh's ready-made garment (RMG) industry worldwide.
Hassan made this request during a meeting with an Intertek delegation, led by Sandeep Das, Regional Managing Director - South Asia, at the BGMEA office in Dhaka. The meeting was also attended by Miran Ali, Vice-President BGMEA, along with key Intertek executives including Neyamul Hasan, Country Business Line Leader and Shoriful Islam. Head of Business Assurance
During the discussion, the Hasan extended an invitation for Intertek to participate in the ‘Made in Bangladesh Week,’ an event scheduled to take place in Dhaka this November.
The two parties discussed a range of topics relevant to Bangladesh's apparel industry, including the global market situation, consumer demand, and emerging trends. They also explored how Intertek could support garment factories in Bangladesh to ensure their prodPucts not only meet the highest safety standards but also remain globally competitive. A key focus was how Intertek could help factories address the growing consumer need for safe, high-quality products that comply with both international and domestic regulations.
Hassan highlighted the significant progress made by Bangladesh's garment industry over the years. He noted the industry's impressive strides in workplace safety, environmental sustainability, and ethical manufacturing, including a strong focus on hygiene, health, safety, and waste management.
Retail sales at Clarks Village surged 14.2 per cent Y-o-Y during the April–June quarter, according to data from its owner, Landsec. The outlet destination saw a rush of shoppers eager to visit new brands and refreshed stores.
This strong performance is part of a broader trend, as Landsec reports a robust quarter across its entire portfolio of premier retail destinations, with significant year-on-year increases in both sales and foot traffic. This follows a record year for Landsec's retail properties.
The sunniest April–June in recorded history encouraged shoppers to update their closets and treat themselves to new summer apparel, driving a 9.3 per cent Y-o-Y increase in clothing sales. Overall foot traffic at the premium Somerset outlet rose by 3.8 per cent, as customers prioritized the experience of shopping in person.
Jacopo Venturini, CEO, Valentino, has resigned from his position in the company, as per a report by Women's Wear Daily. Valentino and Venturini reached a mutual decision to end his association with the company, citing personal reasons on Venturini's part.
The announcement comes months after it was disclosed that Venturini was on sick leave, amid rumors of his impending departure due to the brand's financial struggles last year.
Meanwhile, the company's creative direction remains stable with Alessandro Michele continuing in his role as creative director. A recent addition from Gucci, Michele is expected to steer Valentino through its current challenges, noted sources familiar with the company's internal affairs.
Fashion brand Vans has appointed Grammy-winning artist SZA as its first-ever Artistic Director. She will be responsible for new campaigns and exclusive collections.
Praising SZA for her ‘genre-transcending sound and radical authenticity,’ Vans states she ‘challenges fashion codes and cultural expectations’ and ‘encourages young people to write their own stories.’ The company believes, this makes her the perfect person to embody ‘Off the Wall,’Vans' motto for creative freedom and self-acceptance.
SZA says, for her, joy, community, creativity, and fashion go hand in hand. It's still all about humanity, culture, and connection. Curiosity and courage are the best medicine for uncertainty, and Vans embodies that lifestyle, she adds.
Parent company of PFAFF, Singer and HUSQVARNA Viking sewing brands, SVP Worldwide has launched three new PFAFF sewing machines: the Creative Expression 750, Quilt Expression 725, and Expression 715. These machines combine precision engineering, cutting-edge technology, and the timeless craftsmanship PFAFF is known for.
The new models will be available for purchase beginning August 14, 2025 on PFAFF.com and at authorized PFAFF Dealer locations across the United States and Europe. Expanded global distribution in Latin America and Asia Pacific is planned throughout Q3 and Q4 of 2025.
The new expression series machines showcase advanced features tailored to both serious hobbyists and professional sewists. All models offer built-in connectivity to the Creativate digital platform of creative tools; large color capacitive touch screens for an intuitive, modern sewing experience; automatic needle threaders eliminate threading frustration and exclusive PFAFF stitch techniques for distinctive embellishments.
The creative expression 750 and quilt expression 725 also feature adjustable laser sewing guidance, enabling users to achieve unmatched accuracy for complex projects
Transforming into a major buyer, Gildan Activewear has acquired competitor HanesBrands Inc for $2.2 billion.
According to the Montreal-based company, the deal will create a powerful new entity with a highly efficient manufacturing base and strong brand recognition, leading to significant growth opportunities.
Glenn Chamandy, CEO, says, the combination will create a global leader in basic apparel with access to iconic underwear brands and further strengthen our low-cost, vertically integrated manufacturing network.
This acquisition comes roughly a year and a half after Gildan faced its own leadership crisis, which saw Chamandy ousted and then reinstated in May 2024 after the previous CEO and board resigned. Following his return, company shares saw sharp gains. While they had since fallen this year due to trade and tariff concerns, Gildan's stock climbed more than 10% in midday trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange on Wednesday.
The stock gains occurred despite the company's announcement that it would suspend its share buyback program until its debt-to-earnings ratio improves.
Gildan promises at least $200 million in cost savings through the combined companies’ efficiencies. The company also plans to use its robust manufacturing base to help expand the Hanes brand into activewear, an area where Hanes is currently limited.
The cash-and-stock deal involves Gildan issuing HanesBrands shareholders 0.102 of a Gildan share and $0.80 in cash for each Hanes share. The stock issuance makes up 87 per cent of the deal's value. The terms set HanesBrands’ equity value at $2.2 billion, and Gildan will also assume approximately $2 billion in HanesBrands debt. The deal may also include exploring a potential sale or other strategic alternatives for HanesBrands Australia.
Bill Simon, Chairman, Hanesbrands, says, the deal provides significant and certain value for his company's shareholders, offering both immediate cash and the upside potential of the combined business. As part of Gildan, HanesBrands will benefit from an even stronger financial and operational foundation that will provide new growth opportunities, he adds.
Giriraj Singh, Minister of Textiles, has announced the formation of four new, industry-led committees. These committees aim to quickly develop recommendations for new market diversification, fiscal and business reforms, structural changes in the value chain, and cost competitiveness. The minister made the announcement at a high-level meeting with key textile and apparel industry leaders to discuss the current global trade situation. The Minister of State for Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, and Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles, were also in attendance.
Singh emphasized the ‘5F’ approach - Farm to Fiber to Factory to Fashion to Foreign - and stressed the need to diversify the country’s export basket, boost product competitiveness, and tap into new and underserved markets, according to a press release from the Ministry of Textiles.
He urged exporters to actively explore the European Union (EU) market, which collectively imports textiles worth $268.8 billion - more than twice the size of the US market. India has already signed 15 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries whose combined textile import demand is $198.9 billion, and is currently negotiating an FTA with the EU.
Singh also highlighted that the government aims to strengthen domestic value addition, promote sustainable manufacturing, and reinforce India’s global reputation for quality. He expressed confidence that, through a united effort between the industry and the government and a focus on innovation, India will reach its $100 billion export target by 2030 despite global uncertainties.
India is currently the world’s sixth-largest exporter, holding a 4.1 per cent global share. It shipped $37.7 billion worth of textiles and apparel in 2024–25, which contributed 8.63 per cent to its total merchandise exports. While the US accounts for 28.97 per cent of India's textile exports, it makes up just 6 per cent of the overall $179 billion industry, where domestic demand has surged in the past decade.
