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In a decisive move towards sustainability, Active Apparel Group (AAG), a leading manufacturer of activewear and swimwear, has announced the implementation of an Environmental Management System (EMS) aimed at reducing its environmental impact globally. The EMS, developed following the ISO14001 Standard Framework, outlines specific targets and strategies to minimize carbon footprint across AAG's operations in China, Australia, and the USA.
A recent third-party audit of AAG's greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) identified several focal points for reduction, including decreased energy use (Scope 1), minimized air freight, water conservation, efficient management of production waste, and increased utilization of sustainable materials. Daniel Hawker, CEO of AAG, emphasized the company's commitment to setting measurable goals in reducing their carbon footprint, acknowledging the significant emissions within the fashion industry's supply chain.
AAG's EMS is deeply integrated into its business operations, with clear ownership of targets and continuous education of its team members to ensure tangible results in reducing environmental impact. Quarterly progress reports are shared with stakeholders and reviewed by the Board of Directors, underlining AAG's transparency and accountability in its sustainability efforts.
This initiative forms part of AAG's broader Responsible Business Strategy, encompassing governance, social responsibility, and environmental impact. Alongside the EMS, AAG actively engages in various initiatives such as living wage audits, supply chain traceability projects, and waste management programs, reinforcing its commitment to driving sustainable practices throughout its operations.
In a bid to modernise and digitalise its operations, a prominent player in the textile industry, World Textile Sourcing (WTS) has partnered with World Fashion Exchange (WFX) to implement its fully cloud-based Apparel ERP software solutions across its global businesses. This strategic alliance aims to drive WTS into a new era of digital transformation, enhance efficiency, innovation, and visibility.
A leading provider of enterprise solutions tailored specifically for the fashion industry, WFX offers a comprehensive product suite that includes Apparel and Textile ERP, Fashion PLM, MES, and B2B Virtual Showroom. These can be implemented as standalone applications or integrated to form an end-to-end digital solution.
Headquartered in Peru with a showroom in New York, WTS has earned a reputation for delivering sustainable, high-quality fashion products to over 40 top brands in the United States. With a production capacity of up to 2 million garments per month, WTS is known for its agile supply chain, capable of turnaround times as fast as 30 days. The company offers both Free on Board (FOB) and Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) trade terms, with duty-free shipping available to the Americas, Europe, and most Asian countries. Their logistical capabilities are bolstered by TSA and CTPAT certified warehouses in South Florida.
From its collaboration with WFX, WTS expects to garner comprehensive coverage, custom adaptability, and WFX’s sectoral expertise. The WFX system aligns with the WTS’s unique business model and provides tailored solutions, ensuring it remains agile and responsive to market changes.
Moreover, WFX has extensive experience working with fashion businesses, including textile and garment manufacturers. The collaboration gives the company an opportunity to work with a partner that fully understands the demands of its business and industry. They have insights and solutions tailored to the company’s unique context, which assures its future scalability as a textile business.”
The partnership is expected to transform WTS's internal operations and customer service. Isla states, WFX enables the company to offer faster response times and more personalised solutions. Their advanced capabilities make it more scalable and competitive, ensuring it provides the best possible experience for its customers.
Looking ahead, WTS sees significant potential for growth and value creation through the partnership. WFX will help the company stay ahead of the curve, drive innovation, and set new standards for excellence within the industry, adds Isla.
Pakistan is witnessing a partial initiation of a new cotton ginning season, with one ginning unit becoming operational in both Sindh and Punjab. The state is likely to witness the commencing of more units in the coming days.
Partial cotton picking has started in some coastal areas of Sindh and southern Punjab, as per reports. There is a gradual increase in the arrival of raw cotton in the market, though the volume remains significantly lower compared to the same period last year. Currently, one ginning unit is operational in Hyderabad and another in Burewala, Punjab.
Cotton picking is gaining traction in lower Sindh, with rates ranging between Rs 9,500 and Rs 10,700 per 40 kg. However, high temperatures are hindering efforts to sow cotton, and textile mills have blocked payments worth billions of rupees, citing a financial crisis in the sector.
A recent meeting between the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA) and the All-Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) was limited to exchanging suggestions for improving the current situation. Abid Zaidi, a cotton expert, criticised the APTMA leadership for their lack of seriousness. He noted that ginners complained about textile mills importing cotton at higher prices while refusing to pay better rates for premium quality local lint. Zaidi also highlighted that up to 8 per cent of non-lint content in local cotton is accepted, a practice not seen in other countries, and urged textile mills to enhance the quality of lint.
The Karachi Cotton Association’s spot rate committee maintained the spot rate at Rs 19,700 per bale. Naseem Usman, Chairman, Karachi Cotton Brokers Forum, noted a rising trend in international cotton rates, with New York market futures trading at 80.52 cents per pound.
Ihsanul Haq, Chairman, Cotton Ginners Forum, states, adverse weather conditions have impacted cotton cultivation this season. Early sowing was disrupted by severe cold in February and March in coastal Sindh, while high temperatures are currently affecting crop growth in major cotton zones of Punjab and Sindh, including Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Multan, Sahiwal, Ghotki, Sukkur, Khairpur Mirs, and Nawabshah districts.
Haq also mentioned that the Punjab government recently announced plans to build a 1,000-acre garment city near Lahore, aimed at providing facilities for local and foreign investors to establish new textile mills. He suggested that instead of this initiative, the government should allocate funds to reactivate the 50 to 60 per cent of textile mills in the province that are currently inactive due to various reasons.
MarediModa, after four off-site editions, joins Cabana at Miami Swim Week (June 1-3, 2024), presenting a curated selection of top European fabric and accessory collections from Italy, Spain, and Germany for the S/S 2026 season. This "premium zone" highlights MarediModa's commitment to quality, creativity, innovation, and ethical production, solidifying its global influence in the swimwear industry.
Claudio Taiana, President of MarediModa, highlighted the importance of the event, stating that showcasing their collections in Florida during this key industry event underscores a specific lifestyle and approach. This exposure is crucial for reaching significant customers from the United States, Latin America, and Oceania.
Industry leaders are enthusiastic about the event. Alejandra Boggiano, CEO of Solkissed, expressed anticipation for the trends presented by MarediModa each year. Andrea Villegas, Owner of By AV Studio, emphasized the event as an excellent opportunity to select the best fabrics for the upcoming season and begin planning new collections.
Andy Nettle, Director of Development at Frankies Bikini, also expressed high expectations, noting that they are attending with the hope of finding unique and customizable Italian fabrics.
MarediModa at Cabana is set to be a highlight of Miami Swim Week, offering unparalleled access to premium European swimwear materials.
Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin) has expressed concerns regarding the influx of imported goods in the textile and textile product (TPT) industry in Indonesia. This influx follows the relaxation of prohibitions and restrictions (lartas) under Permendag Number 8 of 2024, which no longer enforces technical considerations (Pertek).
Players in the TPT industry also lament over the lack of lartas on imported goods similar to those they produce, says Adie Rochmanto Pandiangan, Director - Textile, Skin, and Footwear Industry.
Currently performing at an expansive level, the TPT industry in Indonesia is showing positive growth, notes Adie. Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) indicates the textile and clothing industry sub-sector grew by 2.64 per cent Y-o-Y in Q1, FY24.
During the same period, demand for textile products from foreign importers rose by 7.34 per cent while the demand for finished clothes grew by 3.08 per cent Y-o-Y. The contribution of the TPT industry could, however be impacted by the elimination of Pertek, which would, in turn, directly impact the sector's sustainability.
Highlighting the concerns of the small and medium industry players, Nandi Herdiaman, Chairman, Bandung Connection Entrepreneurs Association (IPKB), says, the market might be soon flooded with imported products.
Echoeing these sentiments, Redma Gita Wirawatasta, General Chairperson of the Indonesian
Filament Yarn and Benang Producers Association (APSyFI), states, import control measures have become ineffective due to the relaxation of regulations. The association initially welcomed the Ministry of Trade's steps to control imports through Permendag Number 36 of 2023. Socialised since December 2023 and effective March 10, 2024, the regulation aimed to control imports. However, the containers continued to accumulate due to non-application of approval permits by rogue importers, he adds.
Approximately 26,000 containers are reported stuck. Around 85 per cent of these belong to traders while the remaining 15 per cent are intended for manufacturing. The absence of regulations controlling imports can affect the investment climate and development of the domestic textile industry, impacting employment levels, Wirawasta adds further.
Despite these challenges, however, the growth of the textile and clothing industry can be optimised by preventing the consumption of used clothing (thrifting) and improving market supervision in line with applicable regulations for imported goods, affirms the Ministry of Industry.
The global apparel industry witnessed a significant slowdown in March 2024, with both import and export figures dropping across major markets reveals Wazir Advisors May 2024 report, ‘Apparel trade scenario in key global markets and India’. This trend aligns with declining retailer inventory levels and weakening consumer confidence, reflecting a concerning picture for the near future.
Imports decline reflect waning demand
Import data for key markets like the US, EU, UK, and Japan paints a grim picture. The US, the world's largest apparel importer, saw a 6 per cent year-on-year (YoY) decline in imports to $5.9 billion in March 2024. Similarly, the EU, UK, and Japan experienced significant drops of 8 per cent, 22 per cent, and 26 per cent respectively, highlighting a global decrease in demand. The decline in apparel imports signifies a shrinking apparel market in major regions.
Import decline aligns with the retailer inventory data from Q4 2023. The data suggests a substantial decrease in inventory levels compared to the previous year, indicating that retailers are cautious about stocking up due to weakening demand.
Table: Decline in apparel imports in major markets March 2024
|
Market |
Value ($bn) |
YoY change (%) |
|
US |
5.9 |
-6 |
|
EU |
7.1 |
-8 |
|
UK |
1.4 |
-22 |
|
Japan |
1.7 |
-26 |
Consumer confidence, inventory levels reflect weak demand
The situation is further compounded by declining consumer confidence. In the US, consumer confidence reached a seven-quarter low of 97.0 in April 2024, signifying a hesitant consumer base less likely to splurge on apparel. This lack of confidence is likely to further dampen demand and hinder a swift recovery for the apparel industry. The report also reflects significant drop in retailer inventory compared to previous year. This indicates stores are selling through existing inventory and not placing large orders for new apparel. Weakening consumer confidence and declining inventory levels suggest a drop in demand for apparel.
Export woes for major suppliers
The export story is no brighter. Key supplier nations like China, Bangladesh, and India also experienced declines or stagnated growth in their apparel exports for April 2024. China, the world's leading apparel exporter, witnessed a 3 per cent YoY drop to $11.3 billion, while Bangladesh and India saw flat growth compared to April 2023. This suggests that the slowdown is impacting both ends of the global apparel supply chain, but supplier nations are still managing to export some apparel. In fact, the decline in apparel exports is slower than the decline in imports, indicating some continued demand for apparel globally.
Table: Declining exports from key suppliers
|
Market |
Value ($bn) |
YoY change (%) |
Change from March 2024 |
|
China |
11.3 |
-3 |
0 |
|
Bangladesh |
3.3 |
0 |
10 |
|
India |
1.2 |
0 |
-2 |
US apparel retail sales a puzzling trend
The report presents a puzzling trend in the US apparel retail sector. While US apparel store sales in April 2024 were estimated to be 3 per cent lower than April 2023, online clothing and accessory sales in Q1 2024 dropped by only 1 per cent compared to the same period in 2023. Interestingly, on a year-to-date (YTD) basis, US apparel store sales are still 3 per cent higher than in 2023, suggesting some underlying resilience. So while apparel imports, consumer confidence, and inventory levels all point to weak demand, US apparel store sales show an unexpected increase.
However, this resilience seems limited. April 2024's home furnishing store sales mirrored the broader trend, dropping 2 per cent YoY, with YTD sales a concerning 14 per cent lower than in 2023. This indicates discretionary spending may be shifting away from non-essential items like apparel and home furnishings.
The UK market also reflects a cautious consumer. April 2024 saw UK apparel store sales remain flat at £3.3 billion, indicating an 8 per cent YoY decline. However, a positive sign emerged in the form of a 7 per cent growth in online clothing sales for Q1 2024 compared to Q1 2023. UK apparel store sales are stagnant, while online sales are growing. This suggests that UK consumers may be shifting their shopping habits towards online channels.
The Wazir study reveals global apparel industry is experiencing a slowdown, with declining imports, exports, and retail sales in some regions. Weakening consumer confidence and decreasing inventory levels are contributing factors. However, the data also suggests some variation across regions and channels. US apparel store sales show an unexpected increase, while UK online sales are growing. Further investigation is needed to understand these inconsistencies and predict future trends in the apparel market.
A recent global survey by McKinsey & Company of apparel chief procurement officers (CPOs) highlights five key themes shaping the industry's approach to sourcing. The findings indicate a significant shift towards prioritizing efficiency, supply chain resilience, and sustainability, with a growing emphasis on collaboration with suppliers.
Key challenges
Demand volatility: Fluctuations in consumer demand and the bullwhip effect disrupt the supply chain, leading to shortages and overstocking.
Geopolitical tensions: Rising geopolitical instability is prompting brands to diversify their sourcing footprint to mitigate risk.
Sustainability regulations: Increasing regulations require brands to ensure ethical and environmentally friendly sourcing practices.
Competition: Fast-fashion giants like Shein are disrupting the market with rapid innovation and lower costs.
Five themes shaping apparel sourcing
Efficiency amidst volatility: Brands are prioritizing efficiency across the sourcing process to combat volatility and rising costs.
Rebalancing footprint: Brands are looking to diversify their sourcing bases to mitigate risk and improve speed and agility. Nearshoring is gaining traction, but challenges remain.
Strategic supplier relationships: Brands are forging deeper, long-term partnerships with suppliers to improve planning, resilience, and efficiency.
Sustainability: Sustainability is a growing priority, with brands working with suppliers to meet environmental and social responsibility goals. Data transparency is crucial for effective sustainability efforts.
Digitalization: Brands are embracing digital tools like 3D modelling and data analytics to improve decision-making, transparency, and efficiency.
To move ahead brands need to adopt certain strategies. To begin with they need to utilize data-driven strategies to establish sustainable sourcing goals that deliver economic value. Collaborate with suppliers for value-backed sourcing, material innovation, and cost optimization. Engage in transparent price discussions with suppliers using cost analysis tools. And build strong, mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers through value-sharing models and joint planning.
As the apparel industry transforms brands along with suppliers need to adopt new strategies, prioritize collaboration, and leverage digital solutions to build a more resilient and sustainable future.
China has regained its position as India's largest trading partner in fiscal year 2023-24, edging out the US by a narrow margin, as per Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) statistics. This shift has significant implications for the textiles, apparel, and fashion sectors in all three countries.
China previously held the title of India's top trading partner from 2013-14 to 2017-18, and again in 2020-21. This dominance was largely due to China's established manufacturing base and competitive pricing in textiles and apparel. Indian consumers have a long-standing preference for affordable Chinese clothing, while China relies on Indian cotton, a key raw material.
China's dominance stems from a total trade volume of $118.4 billion with India, edging out the US by a mere $100 million. While India's exports to China rose by 8.7 per cent, imports grew a substantial 44.7 per cent, highlighting a growing trade deficit. This trend reflects China's established position as a manufacturing powerhouse, catering to India's demand for affordable clothing and textiles.
The US seeks closer ties
Despite losing the top spot, the US-India trade relationship remains strong. . The US, is focusing on a strategic shift. The US is actively seeking to deepen economic ties with India, focusing on areas like high-tech goods and advanced textiles. This could lead to increased collaboration in areas like sustainable and innovative fashion within the US and Indian markets. While bilateral trade remains strong, the US is prioritizing diversification of its trading partners and fostering innovation in the textile industry.
India's balancing act
India sits at the centre of this dynamic. The increased trade with China offers access to a vast and cost-effective production base. However, the growing trade deficit and potential security concerns are prompting India to explore alternative partnerships and boost domestic manufacturing. The government's initiatives like the ‘Make in India’ program aim to incentivize local production and reduce reliance on imports.
The impact on textiles & apparel
The global textile industry is witnessing a shift towards ethical and sustainable practices. This trend is creating opportunities for Indian manufacturers to position themselves as a more responsible alternative to China.
Competition: Renewed India-China trade could intensify competition in the global textile and apparel market. Both countries are major exporters, and a focus on cost-effectiveness might lead to price wars.
Supply chain reliance: India's dependence on Chinese suppliers might continue, potentially hindering efforts to develop a robust domestic textile manufacturing industry.
Shifting consumer preferences: Growing awareness of ethical sourcing and sustainability practices could push Indian fashion brands to look beyond China for suppliers, especially in Southeast Asia.
Indeed, the evolving trade landscape between India, China, and the US presents both challenges and opportunities for the textiles, apparel, and fashion industries. Here's what to watch out for:
India's policy focus: Will India implement policies to promote domestic textile manufacturing and reduce reliance on Chinese imports?
US-China trade relations: How will the ongoing trade war between the US and China impact global supply chains and sourcing strategies?
Rise of alternative suppliers: Can Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam capture a larger share of the Indian apparel market?
The future of textiles, apparel, and fashion trade now hinges on how these three major players navigate the changing geopolitical and economic landscape.
Valued at $194.1 billion in 2022, the global kidswear market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1 per cent from 2023-32 to reach $286.9 billion by 2032. The market encompasses a wide range of clothing, footwear, and accessories designed specifically for children aged 0 to 17.
According to a report by Allied Market Research, the apparel segment held the largest share in the global kidswear market in 2022, and is expected to maintain its dominance throughout the forecast period. This segment includes outerwear such as coats and jackets, special occasion dresses, tops like blouses and sweaters, and bottoms like trousers and skirts.
There is a growing demand for sustainable and ethical fashion, driven by the desire for eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices. The digital transformation has reshaped the market as e-commerce and online shopping continue to expand.
Character licensing remains popular, and there is an increasing selection of inclusive and gender-neutral clothing. The rise of fast fashion has catered to parents seeking trendy and affordable items for their children. The market growth is supported by the increasing number of children globally, rising disposable incomes, parental aspirations for quality wardrobes, and awareness of children's clothing quality.
Holding the largest share in 2022, the boys segment is expected to continue its dominance during the forecast period. Athleisure clothing also remains popular for its comfort and adaptability. Environmentally conscious consumers are increasingly aware of sustainability and eco-friendly clothing options.
By distribution channel, the supermarket & hypermarket segment held the largest market share in 2022 and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period. These supermarkets and hypermarkets not only offer a wide range of kid-friendly clothing and promote private label brands that provide cost-effective yet premium options but also embrace seasonal promotions and sustainability, and enhance their online presence to attract customers.
Region-wise, Asia-Pacific dominated the kids wear market in 2022 and is expected to continue this trend during the forecast period. The region's growing and younger population drives the demand for children's clothing, creating opportunities for manufacturers and retailers.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the apparel industry due to strict lockdown restrictions. Additionally, the pandemic has led to changes in consumer behavior, with more people staying at home. These changes have had both positive and negative impacts on the kids wear market.
Amnesty International, Clean Clothes Campaign, and Human Rights Watch are calling for a halt to Sri Lanka's proposed labor law reforms. The organizations allege the reforms would weaken worker protections and violate international standards.
These concerns echo those of Sri Lankan unions and civil society groups who have been protesting the reforms for months. The proposed changes reportedly remove international minimum standards like the eight-hour workday and protections against unfair dismissal. Additionally, limitations on overtime pay, annual leave, and freedom of association are worrying signs for worker rights.
Aruna Kashyap from Human Rights Watch stresses the importance of transparency and consultation, warning that implementing these reforms without adequate discussion could have severe consequences for Sri Lanka's garment industry and worker protections.
Ineke Zeldenrust from Clean Clothes Campaign emphasizes the vulnerable position of workers during the economic crisis, noting that Sri Lankan workers urgently require legal safeguards and strong unions. She expressed concern that the reforms might violate international labor and human rights standards.
The Sri Lankan government has not yet responded to the criticism. The proposed reforms come at a time of economic hardship for the country, with many Sri Lankans struggling to afford basic necessities. Weakening worker protections could exacerbate these issues and lead to further unrest.
