In a press release, it was announced that AKM Salim Osman has been re-elected as the President of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA) for the term of 2023-2025. This marks his seventh consecutive term in office. 

Salim Osman, the Managing Director of Wisdom Attires Ltd, is also a Jatiya Party lawmaker representing the Narayanganj-5 constituency. Notably, he is the brother of ruling Awami League lawmaker Shamim Osman. 

The BKMEA election board declared the results on Tuesday, where Salim Osman and eight other office bearers were elected unopposed. No other candidates had submitted nomination papers for the election. Additionally, Mohammad Hatem, the Managing Director of MB Knit Fashions Ltd, has been elected as the Executive President of BKMEA, and Md Monsoor Ahmed, the Managing Director of MotaherColor Ltd, as the Senior Vice President. 

Among the elected vice presidents are Fazle Ehsan Shamim, Amal Poddar, Gauhar Siraj Jamil, Akhter Hossain, and Ashikur Rahman. Morshed Sarwar (Sohel) has been elected as the Vice President (Finance). 

Earlier, on July 20, the election board had announced that all 35 candidates for the directorship posts, under Salim Osman's panel, were elected unopposed, as there were no opponents, in accordance with the Trade Organisation Ordinance.

The Lenzing Group, a world-leading provider of wood-based specialty fibers, organized 'The Lenzing Conclave' in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, bringing together over 60 experts from the region. The event focused on fostering knowledge exchange and exploring the applications of their TENCEL branded fibers and LENZING ECOVERO branded viscose fibers through an interactive seminar and product display.

Coimbatore, known as the 'Manchester of South India,' boasts a strong textile base, making it a strategic location for the conclave. With the rising demand for Lenzingfibers in South Asia and India over the last decade, the company has strengthened its presence in the regional market. The event provided a unique opportunity for Lenzing and local industry stakeholders to collaborate and integrate sustainable fibers like TENCEL and LENZING ECOVERO into their weaving processes, fostering new innovations.

Coimbatore is a significant center for weaving, made-ups, and apparel production. While 70% of the products developed in the region cater to the domestic market, the rest are exported to Western markets. As the market seeks alternatives to cotton fibers, there is a growing demand for wood-based cellulosic fibers. This presented an excellent opportunity to explore TENCEL lyocell and LENZING ECOVERO viscose fibers for creating superior quality, sustainable products.

Avinash Mane, Sr. Commercial Director - Textile Business, AMEA & NEA, Lenzing Group, South Asia, expressed delight at the response to the conclave, emphasizing the power of collaboration and innovation in the textile industry. Lenzing Group collaborates closely with weavers, providing technical expertise, bulk production support, and marketing tools, empowering weavers to introduce high-quality offerings to the market. The successful experiences in other hubs have inspired Lenzing and the weaving community to further enhance product quality for both domestic and international markets, bolstering the region's position in the global textile industry and supporting sustainability goals.

The global polyester resin dispersion market is set to achieve a valuation of US$ 7,635.4 million by 2023, with an estimated CAGR of 4.8% from 2023 to 2033, reaching around US$ 12,200.7 million by 2033. The rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials, especially in construction and automotive industries, has propelled the popularity of water-based polyester resin dispersion due to its environmentally friendly nature. The construction industry, being one of the primary end-users, is expected to witness high demand, driven by infrastructure development worldwide.

Polyester resin dispersions offer versatility and excellent performance characteristics, making them suitable for various applications such as coatings, adhesives, and sealants. Additionally, the shift towards environmentally friendly products and stringent regulations related to emissions have further boosted the adoption of polyester resin dispersions. They also offer cost advantages over other resin systems, making them a preferred choice for various applications.

The United States stands out in polyester resin dispersion sales due to its easy product availability and robust supply chain. The construction industry's significant growth, driven by infrastructure development and residential and commercial projects, has contributed to strong sales in the country.

The building & construction and automotive & transportation segments are expected to dominate the market, driven by increasing investments in infrastructure and the need for lightweight and fuel-efficient vehicles. Leading players in the industry focus on product innovation, strategic partnerships, and collaborations to cater to evolving customer needs and expand their reach in emerging markets like China and India. Mergers and acquisitions are also common strategies to consolidate market positions and access new markets and technologies.

Overall, the polyester resin dispersion market is projected to witness substantial growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions in various industries worldwide. Key players' proactive strategies to innovate and expand into emerging markets will play a crucial role in maintaining their competitive edge and meeting the evolving demands of customers.

Calderdale College is set to launch a groundbreaking apprenticeship training course for textile engineering technicians in West Yorkshire, marking a significant revival in the local and UK-wide textile industry.

Partnering with the Textile Centre of Excellence (TCoE) and the British Textile Machinery Association (BTMA), the college has developed a customized Level 3 apprenticeship course, commencing in September 2023. The program aims to equip Engineering Technician apprentices with the essential engineering maintenance skills required to bridge the skills gap prevalent in West Yorkshire's textile sector.

Despite its historical prominence in the 19th century, the region faces challenges today, including an aging workforce and high staff turnover. However, the industry is undergoing revitalization through digitalization and localized supply chains. To address the current demands of the industry, the apprenticeship course has been tailored to transfer vital knowledge and practices aligned with Industry 4.0 and automation.

The development of the program has been a collaborative effort involving Calderdale College, TCoE, BTMA, British heritage weaver AW Hainsworth, and several other local textile companies. This initiative follows the success of the Collaborative Apprenticeships project introduced in 2022, which has engaged over 100 local employers in promoting apprenticeships and their benefits.

Claire Williams, head of employer engagement at Calderdale College, emphasized the significance of tailored apprenticeships for industries, leading to a steady flow of skilled workers and enhanced staff retention. The unique course is expected to fill current and future skills gaps in the industry, bringing together textile and engineering expertise. It has garnered considerable interest from apprentices and employers alike.

Jason Kent, CEO of the British Textile Machinery Association, stressed the importance of collaboration, ensuring the course's success, and providing promising career paths for young individuals while bolstering the sector with technical expertise.

The launch of this pioneering apprenticeship program signifies a crucial step in resurging the local textile industry and serving as a model for other sectors to follow. The course aims to shape a new generation of skilled professionals to drive the industry forward amidst the challenges and opportunities presented by modernization and automation.

With the global apparel market set to witness a substantial 11% revenue growth over the next four years, aspiring entrepreneurs are increasingly eyeing the fashion industry. To shed light on the most promising locations, JOOR, a wholesale expert company, conducted a comprehensive study evaluating several key factors, including country population, import and export figures, apparel market valuation, and the presence of 'unicorn companies' in the consumer and retail market. Unicorns are privately held startup companies valued at over $1 billion.

The study reveals that the United States ranks as the number one destination for fashion startups, boasting a high score of 9.27 out of 10. The "land of opportunity" houses unicorn startups valued at a staggering $223 billion, instilling hope in new entrepreneurs. Moreover, the export/import ratio of 6.99 indicates a flourishing market with a surplus of materials. The US apparel market also demonstrates a steady annual growth rate of 2.7%.

Securing the second position on the list is the United Kingdom, scoring 8.61. While the UK exhibits a higher annual growth rate in the apparel market (3%), the valuation of unicorn startups in the consumer and retail space is comparatively lower, standing at $4.4 billion. The country's export/import ratio of 5.57 further signals a thriving market.

Canada ranks third as an attractive location for fashion startups, earning a score of 8.48 out of 10. With unicorn startups valued at $12.4 billion and an annual apparel market growth rate of 3.5%, Canada offers a stable environment for fashion entrepreneurs. Additionally, the country maintains a healthy export/import ratio of 6.69.

Germany secures the fourth spot, with a score of 7.93 out of 10. The valuation of consumer and retail unicorn startups in Germany is an impressive $14.5 billion. Furthermore, the country's export/import ratio of 2.08 signifies favorable market conditions. Germany's apparel market demonstrates a steady annual growth rate of 2.20%.

China claims the fifth position as an appealing destination for fashion startups, scoring 7.88 out of 10. With unicorn startups valued at a massive $239 billion, China leads the pack in this category. Moreover, the country's apparel market boasts an astounding annual growth rate of 6.30%. However, the low export/import ratio of 0.12 poses a potential challenge for businesses.

The United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) has recently published its tenth annual Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study, based on a survey of executives from 30 leading fashion brands, retailers, importers, and wholesalers, including some of the country's biggest names in the industry. The study, conducted in collaboration with Dr. Sheng Lu, Associate Professor in the University of Delaware Department of Fashion & Apparel Studies, delves into various aspects of the industry, including business outlook, sourcing practices, trade agreements, and views on trade policy.

One of the major findings from the survey is that the uncertain macroeconomic outlook is presenting significant challenges to U.S. fashion companies in 2023. With economic conditions remaining unpredictable, businesses are grappling with planning and decision-making.

The survey also highlights the escalating concerns among U.S. fashion companies about the deteriorating bilateral relationship between the United States and China. As a result, many companies are strategizing to reduce their exposure to China, aiming to mitigate the risks associated with the geopolitical situation.

Tackling forced labor risks in the supply chain emerges as another critical challenge facing U.S. fashion companies in 2023. Companies are confronted with the complex task of ensuring their supply chains are free from any association with forced labor practices.

Amidst these challenges, there is a notable enthusiasm among respondents to increase apparel sourcing from CAFTA-DR members. The Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) is seen as an attractive option for diversifying sourcing locations.

The survey also reveals a strong commitment among respondents to expand their sourcing of clothing made from recycled or other sustainable textile fibers. Sustainability remains a key focus for the industry.

Lastly, respondents overwhelmingly support and stress the importance of the early renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), advocating for its extension for at least another ten years. AGOA is a crucial trade preference program that facilitates trade between the U.S. and eligible African countries.

As the U.S. fashion industry navigates through uncertainties and evolving trade dynamics, the study provides valuable insights into the industry's outlook and strategies. By addressing issues like China exposure, forced labor risks, and embracing sustainability, fashion companies aim to remain resilient and competitive in the challenging landscape.

Despite facing multiple lawsuits and government scrutiny in the US, Shein has experienced a remarkable surge in sales volume and profits during the first half of 2023, reaching an all-time high, revealed by CNBC. 

Tang's letter to CNBC mentioned that the company achieved the highest first-half net profit in its history, a significant improvement compared to nearly breaking even during the same period in 2022. He emphasized that their consistent momentum in the US reinforces their leading position in the market. 

The company, rumored to be considering a public listing in the US later this year, has been diversifying its offerings from affordable fashion to include more premium goods and transitioning to a marketplace model. In May, it was valued at $66 billion, a third lower than a previous fundraising round, and its sales reached an impressive $23 billion last year. 

Shein's expansion has not been limited to the US. In Brazil, its marketplace now boasts 6,000 active sellers and tripled the value of goods sold since the beginning of the year, reaching nearly $100 million. 

The company has also announced plans to launch marketplaces in Mexico, Germany, Spain, France, and Italy. The company's growth is notable, given the challenges it faces, including accusations from US lawmakers of lacking supply chain transparency, fierce competition in the market, and being embroiled in court battles with Temu, another Chinese-owned e-commerce operator. 

Shein has been actively recruiting Amazon sellers and denying allegations made by Temu, stating that they have not pressured manufacturers or spread false information about their competitor.

Frasers Group, the parent company of House of Fraser, has issued a warning about the possibility of more store closures in the near future. The group stated that the retailer's portfolio is under constant review, and some outlets are deemed too large, necessitating solutions for the excess space. 

This revelation follows a series of store closures in the past year, with eight department stores already shut down. The number of House of Fraser shops has drastically declined from 59 to 31 since its acquisition in August 2018, which company owner Mike Ashley admitted was a mistake. 

Despite the challenges faced by the global department store industry, Frasers Group has managed to see a significant boost in profits. For the year ending April 30, the company's adjusted pre-tax profit nearly doubled, reaching £478.1m, exceeding the previous year's £339.8m and hitting the higher end of their forecast range (£450-500m). 

While grappling with potential closures, Frasers Group also plans to open new stores, including the redevelopment of an outlet in Norwich and a site in Blackpool.

A recent report by Allied Market Research titled "Compression Wear and Shapewear Market by Product Type, Gender, Application, and Distribution Channel: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2030" sheds light on the thriving market of compression wear and shapewear. 

The comprehensive study delves into top investment prospects, winning strategies, drivers, opportunities, market size estimations, competitive landscape, and evolving market trends. The market's growth is attributed to several factors, including increased disposable income among consumers, advancements in fabric technology and garment designs, growing popularity of compression wear among the elderly, shifting lifestyles, and higher demand for compression wear from the fitness industry. 

However, the market faces some constraints due to health issues associated with tightly worn compression and shapewear, such as blood clots, breathing problems, and acid reflux. 

The male user segment leads the market, driven by their higher adoption of compression wear, especially during workouts. The female consumer segment is expected to witness the highest growth rate owing to increased female interest in fitness, sports activities, and the rise of women-specific product lines from major brands like Nike and Under Armour. 

Application-wise, the performance and recovery segment holds the largest revenue share due to extensive usage of compression wear for injury prevention, improved blood circulation, and faster recovery. 

Among distribution channels, specialty retail stores have the highest revenue share, while online sales are expected to grow significantly due to wider product availability and increased internet penetration in Asia-Pacific and LAMEA. 

The compression wear segment dominates the market, accounting for over 70% of the revenue, primarily driven by its use among professional athletes and individuals engaging in recreational exercises. 

The report offers valuable insights for stakeholders, including an in-depth analysis of market trends, regional and global markets, key players, market segments, competitive scenarios, sales areas, and growth strategies. With quantitative data from 2020 to 2030, investors can identify lucrative opportunities in the compression wear and shapewear market.

Intex, the highly anticipated International Textile Sourcing Show, is set to return to Sri Lanka from August 9th to 11th, 2023, at the prestigious BMICH (Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall) in Colombo. 

Since its inception in 2015, Intex has been a driving force behind business collaborations, innovation, and trade opportunities in the global textile industry. With exhibitors from 11+ countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Vietnam, China, Korea, Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, USA, and the UK, Intex Sri Lanka will showcase a comprehensive range of products, from yarns and fabrics to accessories, denims, dyes, certifications, designing solutions, and more. 

A key highlight will be the India Pavilion, boasting over 70 companies representing the entire textile value chain. This pavilion aims to address Sri Lanka's growing demand for raw materials, with garment exports reaching US$ 5.93 billion in 2022. 

Moreover, the Interactive Business Forum (IBF) Seminar Series will be a platform for industry leaders, including WGSN, Cotton USA, and others, to share market insights on sustainability, digital transformation, supply chain management, and traceability. 

Supported by various esteemed associations and organizations, Intex Sri Lanka is poised to shape the future of the textile industry both in Sri Lanka and globally. This must-attend event promises to foster growth, collaboration, and advancement in the thriving textile landscape.