On World Environment Day 2025, the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) launched the Green Innotextile Base (GIB) in Shanghai, marking a significant step in cross-regional green innovation. Established in collaboration with Pudong New Force Incubator and the Pudong-Hong Kong Institute for Technology Transfer and Innovation, the GIB was unveiled at the Innostech 2025 Shanghai-Hong Kong Seminar.
Located in the Yangtze River Delta, GIB will drive sustainable development, promote circular economy practices, and facilitate research on advanced textile and apparel materials. It also aims to integrate fashion with artificial intelligence, strengthening innovation in the textile sector.
The GIB aligns with national green goals while setting technical standards, providing certifications, and enabling faster adoption of new technologies. It will also support Hong Kong-based enterprises with market expansion and investment opportunities, promoting deeper industry collaboration.
HKRITA Chairman Teresa Yang noted that the platform will bridge industry, academia, and research, promoting smart manufacturing and embedding sustainable fashion into the textile value chain. GIB, she said, aims to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Geng Zhongwei, Chairman of Pudong New Force Incubator, emphasized that the platform will offer AI-powered automation and value-added services to support startups and enhance incubation effectiveness.
Chan Yi Ngok of the Pudong-Hong Kong Institute highlighted GIB's role in driving talent development, global collaboration, and sustainable productivity in the region.
HKRITA also announced a partnership with NeoRita Sustainable Technologies (Shanghai) Ltd to develop vegan leather using bacterial cellulose, showcasing Hong Kong’s innovation in sustainable materials and creative industries.
