Despite facing challenges in the global markets and dealing with rising production costs, Bangladesh's clothing export market share has experienced remarkable growth, more than tripling in the last 17 years. 

In 2022, the country exported $45 billion worth of clothing, capturing a significant 7.9% share of the global market, a substantial increase from the modest 2.5% share it held back in 2005. This impressive growth has been attributed to Bangladesh's strategic focus on value-added products and the diversification of orders, especially from China. 

Exporters believe that with continued support from the government, including uninterrupted energy supply and favorable tax and duty policies, exports could surge even further. 

The World Trade Organization's report recognized Bangladesh's progress, noting that it climbed up the ranks among the 50 largest merchandise traders, reaching 49th place in 2022, a considerable improvement from its previous position of 53rd in 2019. 

Meanwhile, China maintained its position as the largest merchandise trader in 2022. These developments demonstrate Bangladesh's growing significance in the global clothing export market and underscore the potential for further expansion with the right support and strategic initiatives.

In the first five months of 2023, the commodity turnover between Kazakhstan and China recorded a notable increase, reaching $10.7 billion, representing a substantial 21.6% growth compared to the same period last year. 

However, there were some interesting dynamics in this trade relationship. While Kazakhstan's exports to China experienced a slight decline of 4.1%, amounting to $4.9 billion, imports from China into Kazakhstan saw a remarkable surge of 56.3%, reaching $5.9 billion. 

The main exports from Kazakhstan to China were dominated by crude oil and oil products, followed by refined copper and nontreated copper alloy, as well as inorganic chemistry products. On the other hand, China's primary imports to Kazakhstan consisted of clothes and other textiles, along with computers, telecommunications equipment, and vehicles. 

The presence of Chinese capital in Kazakhstan has been on the rise, with a total of 2,100 companies with Chinese participation recorded in June 2023, indicating a notable increase of 37% from the previous year. The top five sectors that attracted Chinese investment were construction, processing industry, mining industry, information, and communications. 

For those seeking more detailed information on these developments and investment opportunities in Kazakhstan, we encourage you to visit the website of the Kazakh Ministry of Trade and Industry. Furthermore, to explore potential investment prospects further, the website of the Kazakh Investment Promotion Agency is also available for your reference.

A significant shift is underway in the US fashion industry as a record number of companies are turning away from China as their primary supplier. Growing diplomatic uncertainty and mounting apprehensions about forced labor have triggered this change. According to a recent survey by the US Fashion Industry Association and Sheng Lu, around 61% of apparel retail CEOs have abandoned China as their top supplier, a substantial increase from the 30% reported before the pandemic. 

The survey reveals that nearly 80% of these companies intend to further reduce their reliance on China over the next two years. Instead, they are shifting their sourcing operations to countries like Vietnam, Bangladesh, and India, which offer larger production capacities and more stable economic and political environments. 

The enforcement of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, which prohibits imports from China's Xinjiang region, and concerns about forced labor have added to the urgency for companies to diversify their supply chains. 

Cotton products have been a particular concern, given Xinjiang's status as one of China's major cotton-producing regions. While breaking ties with China presents challenges for US fashion retailers, who have long depended on the region for efficient and cost-effective production, they are determined to navigate through this change. 

The survey shows that managing forced-labor risks in the supply chain ranks as the second-largest business challenge in 2023, following inflation and economic outlook. US apparel imports from China have significantly decreased, falling to 18.3% in the first five months of this year compared to 30% in 2019. 

In contrast, apparel imports from other major Asian suppliers like Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, India, and Cambodia have reached a new high of 44.3% during the same period. 

While domestic production doesn't appear to be a primary pursuit for US apparel companies, many are adopting nearshoring strategies, with Mexico, Guatemala, and Nicaragua emerging as top fashion suppliers in 2023. 

This shift underscores how the fashion industry is responding to the heightened economic and diplomatic uncertainties posed by China and reflects the industry's commitment to addressing forced labor issues in their supply chains.

The Indian Viscose Staple Yarn (VSY) industry is expected to grow 10-12% YoY, reaching a record revenue of over $2.5 billion this fiscal year, according to CRISIL Ratings. 

Despite declining yarn prices compared to raw materials, VSY manufacturers are projected to improve overall profitability by 200-300 basis points due to strong balance sheets and improved cash flows, supporting credit risk profiles despite significant debt-funded capital expenditure. 

CRISIL's analysis shows VSY's attractiveness as an alternative to cotton yarn, with a compound annual growth rate of 13% over the last three fiscal years, higher than cotton yarn's 5% growth. VSY prices remained stable between Rs 200 and Rs 250 per kg, while cotton yarn prices fluctuated between Rs 200 and Rs 380 per kg. The removal of anti-dumping duty on VSF imports in fiscal 2022 contributed to VSY's increased share of the spinning industry volume, surpassing 10% last fiscal year. 

CRISIL Ratings Ltd, predicts 15% growth in viscose spinners' volume this fiscal year, driven by domestic and export demand revival. The operating margin is likely to reach 11-12%, as VSY makers' revenue improves and spreads between VSY and VSF expand to Rs 55-58 per kg. 

The margin is projected to recover as major raw material prices moderate towards steady-state levels of 12-13%. VSY makers are expected to add ~15% capacity this fiscal year, funded by a 1:1 debt-to-equity ratio. Gearing is expected to improve to 0.85 times by March 2024, and the interest coverage ratio is expected to be 6 times this fiscal year, driven by higher profitability. 

However, any adverse impacts from anti-dumping duties on VSF or lower demand will be monitored closely.

Bangladesh's apparel industry has shown remarkable growth in exports to non-traditional markets, but there is still untapped potential in countries like the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain. 

To capitalize on this potential and achieve the ambitious goal of becoming a $100 billion apparel exporter by 2030, various stakeholders need to take action. 

Decision-makers 

Government and industry leaders should prioritize market exploration and invest in promotional campaigns to introduce 'made in Bangladesh' products across non-traditional markets. This may include conducting market research, identifying target customer segments, and tailoring marketing strategies to suit the preferences and demands of each country. 

Businesses

Apparel manufacturers and exporters should diversify their export markets and actively explore new opportunities in non-traditional markets. This can be achieved by establishing partnerships with local distributors or retailers, attending trade shows and expos, and leveraging digital platforms for marketing and sales. 

Consumers

Consumers play a crucial role in supporting the growth of 'made in Bangladesh' products. By choosing these products whenever possible, consumers can contribute to the success of Bangladesh's apparel industry and its goal of becoming a major global exporter. 

Collaborative approach

Overall, collaborative efforts among decision-makers, businesses, and consumers will be essential in unlocking the full potential of non-traditional markets and propelling Bangladesh's apparel industry towards its ambitious target. By taking these steps, Bangladesh can strengthen its position as a key player in the global apparel market and drive economic growth in the country.

The European Union's (EU) apparel import performance for the period of January to May 2023 has seen a decline of 8.84% in value, reaching US$36.31 billion compared to US$39.83 billion in the same period in 2022. The quantity of clothing imported by the EU has also decreased by 16.54%, from US$1.75 billion to US$1.46 billion. 

Bangladesh continues to hold its position as the second-largest apparel import source for the EU, with a 23.32% share of the total import from 26 EU member countries. China remains the top supplier with a 23.67% share. Interestingly, in terms of quantity, Bangladesh has already surpassed China and maintained its leading position. 

However, both Bangladesh and China experienced declines in their apparel exports to the EU during the mentioned months of 2023. Bangladesh's import value decreased by 11.59%, while China's declined by 15.25%. 

The overall trend in EU's apparel imports shows negative growth for all top ten sourcing countries, indicating a challenging retail business and economic scenario. Despite the downturn, Bangladesh is making strides in diversifying its products and moving towards sophisticated items, reflected in the rise of unit prices.

India, one of the largest cotton producers in the world, is going through a tough time with its current crop of the white fluff. It isn’t just the Ukrainian conflict as economic uncertainties have also created a sizeable slump in demand for clothing and therefore textile. A year ago things looked different as in FY 2022, Indian cotton yarn manufacturers achieved record-high profitability due to strong demand, lower domestic cotton prices compared to international prices and the US ban on cotton products from China’s Xinjiang region, which redirected some demand to India. FY 2023 has been a complete let down after so far. Experts opine, China used to be the number one and largest buyer of Indian cotton but now has reduced orders after its textile industry hit doldrums post-pandemic. Since FY 2022, Bangladesh is India's number one buyer of cotton yarn.  

FY 2023 poses many challenges

If the country’s registered production continues its free fall, India will not only lose its status as one of the world’s largest cotton producers but also runs the risk of becoming a net importer. So what exactly is going on? The disparity between domestic and international cotton prices is a considerable one as Indian cotton is priced between 10 and 14 per cent higher than international price. When there is an overall decline in demand for cotton textile at a global level, the higher pricing is leading to rejection by international importers. 

A catch-22 situation, the decline in sales volume and the forced contraction in operating profitability just to sell the produce is creating a big impact on the farming communities. While inflation in India is relatively under control but the slight levels it is at in terms of energy costs has made it hard for factories spinning yarns to lower their costs to compete. This year has been a record low for Indian cotton yarn exporters. 

USDA red flag a bane

In this ongoing turmoil, USDA has stated that it expects India’s cotton exports to slip to its lowest levels in 19 years during the ongoing crop season between October 2022 and September 2023. The USDA expects farmers to shift to other profitable crops such as oilseeds and pulses leading to the dip. Indian cotton yarn exports had hit a decadal low of 664,000 tonnes in FY23, compared to the highest exports of 1.38 million tonnes in FY22. 

Latest agriculture ministry stats show, cotton sowing across India remains 8.5 per cent lower on year at 7 million hectares due to a shrink in cultivation in some major growing states such as Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana amid patchy rainfall. Many farmers say they are worried about producing a crop that is so reliant on water, of which there is no guarantee as climatic conditions have changed drastically and long periods of drought are playing havoc with the crop and soil. The only Indian state that saw a 4.6 per cent increase in crop production was Gujarat as it was blessed with a copious amount of rainfall last year. 

In fact, at a recent Cotton Association of India press conference, former secretary of state for textile, UP Singh was not so optimistic about times ahead unlike many experts. While many experts are talking about a 5 to 7 per cent growth in cotton yarn production in India, Singh says unless productivity in cotton farming is addressed, India will soon be importing cotton instead of being the largest producer. 

Fast fashion has been on the radar for a while now. From environment activists and watch-bodies to governments, there are a multitude of sources that are building up pressure on fashion’s black sheep – this has resulted in companies such as Shein, H&M and Inditex being forced to submit their performances based on the goals they’ve declared – the question is was all that green washing? 

Polyester prolific in fast fashion

The rise of fast fashion has been heavily dependent on synthetic fibres such as polyester, nylon, acrylic and elastane, made from heavily processed petrochemicals. These materials are cheap to produce – polyester, for example, costs half as much per kilo compared to cotton – and therefore, allow brands to keep prices low, though with a high environmental price-tag. 

Polyester is the most widely used synthetic fibre and is now found in over half of all textiles produced. It is generally produced from polyethylene terephthalate, better known as PET, a type of plastic derived from crude oil and natural gas – also used to make items such as plastic bottles. When usage data of different fibres are displayed, polyester outpaces all other fibres at 60.5 m tonnes per year and cotton a distant second with 24.7 m tonnes per year. The usage of other synthetic fibres stands at 11.7 m tonnes, man-made cellulosic fibres at 7.2 m tonnes, plant-based fibres at 6.7 m tonnes and animal-derived fibres at 1.8 m tonnes per year. 

Shein, Inditex and H&M report card

Here is a look at public disclosures by some fast fashion brands. Shein’s 2022 Sustainability and Social Impact Report declared the brand’s textile portfolio – polyester is 64 per cent whereas recycled polyester is below 1 per cent. Other synthetics in Shein’s portfolio are viscose at 8 per cent, polyamide and Spandex at 3 per cent each. According to Shein, forest-safe viscose is less than 1 per cent. The Chinese fast fashion brand has set for itself a target of making the less than 1 per cent of recycled polyester to 31 per cent by 2030. 

 In terms of absolutely polyester, Inditex scores it at 27 per cent of its textile portfolio whilst H&M scores its usage as 21 per cent. These figures for Inditex and H&M were sourced from their last published annual reports. Inditex has a lofty target – 100 per cent recycled polyester by 2025. However, according to its annual report on 33.33 per cent of its winter 2022 collection was from recycled polyester. This then begets the question whether Inditex can reach its target at all? 

H&M seems in a far better position as it too has targeted 100 per cent recycled by 2025 – it has already succeeded in converting its latest collection to 75 per cent recycled polyester. 

Cotton, another natural fibre that is costing the earth’s resources heavily is only 10 per cent in Shein’s textile portfolio, even here Shein has been criticised for its dubious cotton sourcing practices which it of course vehemently denies. Shein says it has established robust traceability of its cotton supply chain, including a propriety system that integrates documentation, that is committed to respecting human rights and that has zero tolerance to forced labor. Inditex has nearly half of its portfolio as cotton at 41 per cent and at H&M cotton is 61 per cent of its portfolio.

Sustainable fashion consultant and founder of Clean & Unique, a supply chain information platform states that she appreciates that fashion brands are trying to be more green in their supply chain, but she fears consumers don’t really care enough to read labels. 

The global luxury apparel market is projected to reach USD 139.2 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.23% from 2023 to 2030,according to a report by Market Research Future.

Drivers 

The increasing penetration of e-commerce has played a significant role in boosting market growth. Luxury brands have embraced online platforms to reach a broader audience, leading to increased sales. 

Consumers prefer the convenience and vast product selection offered by online shopping, making luxury apparel more accessible to a larger customer base. 

Opportunities 

The desire for uniqueness and exclusivity presents robust opportunities for luxury apparel brands. By producing limited quantities, collaborating with renowned designers, and utilizing precious materials, luxury clothing companies cater to consumers who seek exclusive products that are not easily available to the general public. 

The appeal lies in owning rare and sought-after fashion items, enabling consumers to showcase their refined taste and elevated status. 

Restraints and Challenges 

Limited accessibility to luxury apparel in low-income countries and rural areas, coupled with a lack of fashion awareness among consumers, may act as market restraints during the forecast period. COVID-19 Impact 

The global pandemic caused by COVID-19 led to economic downturn and instability, affecting various industries, including luxury apparel. 

Lockdowns and restrictions on social gatherings reduced the demand for luxury clothing. However, certain stimulus funds in industrialized nations led to a trend of luxury resale in the worldwide market, providing some cushion in personal budgets for luxury items. 

Market Segmentation 

The luxury apparel market is segmented based on distribution channel, gender, consumer group, and type. Clothing leads the market in terms of type, and Gen X dominates in terms of consumer group. 

The female gender spearheads the market, while offline channels command the distribution. Regional Analysis 

Asia-Pacific (APAC) holds the largest market share, with countries like China, India, and Japan driving growth due to rising incomes and increased preference for luxury products among millennials and Generation Z. 

Europe follows closely, with several luxury fashion companies and tourists contributing to the region's growth in luxury apparel

Adidas AG, the renowned German sportswear manufacturer, and English football club Manchester United have inked an extraordinary 10-year contract extension, solidifying one of the most significant deals in Premier League history. The agreement ensures that Adidas's iconic stripes and logo will grace the players' jerseys until 2035, with the deal valued at a minimum of £900 million ($1.2 billion).

This remarkable renewal takes place amid Manchester United's ongoing efforts to find a new owner or investors while under the ownership of the Glazer family since 2005. Notably, UK-based billionaire Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad J.J. Al Thani, a member of Qatar's royal family, have presented bids surpassing $5 billion to acquire the esteemed club.

Although the team demonstrated improved on-field performance last season, it continues to grapple with replicating past glory under former manager Alex Ferguson, who retired in 2013—the year of Manchester United's last Premier League title.

This extended partnership with Adidas marks a notable move for the sportswear brand, especially after parting ways with rapper and designer Kanye West, formerly known as Ye, as it endeavors to bolster sales and pave the way for future growth.