The 42nd HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and 11th Salon de TE concluded successfully yesterday, with nearly 15,000 buyers from 95 countries and regions attending the four-day physical fairs. 

The event was held under the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, which also included an online exhibition that will continue until 16 September.

The fairs were well-received by exhibitors and buyers alike. Many exhibitors reported receiving orders on the spot, and buyers were impressed by the wide range of products on display. The debut "Guo Chao" theme, which showcased timepieces that blend Chinese cultural elements with exquisite craftsmanship, was also a major draw.

In addition to the physical fairs, the HKTDC also conducted an on-site survey of exhibitors and buyers to gauge industry trends for next year. 

The survey found that nearly 60% of respondents expect overall sales to grow in the next two years, with South Korea, Australia & Pacific Islands, North America and Japan being seen as the most promising markets. Smartwatches were also expected to remain the most popular watch category, followed by mechanical watches and automatic watches.

The HKTDC's Click2Match service was also well-received, with many exhibitors and buyers reporting that it had helped them to connect with potential business partners. The new Scan2Match function was also praised for its convenience, allowing buyers to bookmark exhibitors, browse product information and make enquiries even after the physical fair has ended.

The 42nd HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and 11th Salon de TE were a great success, and they helped to showcase the latest trends in the watch and clock industry. The event also provided a valuable platform for exhibitors and buyers to connect and do business.

The three-day exhibition brought together more than 240 fashion brands from 19 countries and regions, showcasing a wide range of products from ready-to-wear to accessories.

The event was well-received by both exhibitors and buyers. Many exhibitors said that they were able to meet new buyers and generate leads, while buyers said that they were impressed by the quality and variety of products on display.

The survey also revealed that the fashion industry is increasingly focused on sustainability. About 74% of respondents agreed that sustainable fashion would be prevalent in the industry this year.

Key Takeaways:

• The event attracted over 7,700 buyers from 78 countries and regions, making it a major international platform for promoting and launching fashion brands.

• The survey revealed that the fashion industry is increasingly focused on sustainability, with 74% of respondents agreeing that sustainable fashion would be prevalent in the industry this year.

• The event featured a wide range of products from ready-to-wear to accessories, showcasing the latest trends in fashion.

• The event was well-received by both exhibitors and buyers, who said that they were able to meet new contacts and generate leads.

Overall:

CENTRESTAGE 2023 was a successful event that showcased the best of Asia's fashion industry. It was a valuable platform for businesses to connect and grow, and it highlighted the importance of sustainability in the fashion industry.

A new report by Cornell University's Global Labor Institute and Schroders reveals that extreme heat and flooding are threatening the growth of the apparel industry. The research finds that these climate risks could result in significant disruption days and production losses, slowing down the industry's growth and putting $65 billion worth of apparel exports at risk - equivalent to a 22% decline - between now and 2030 for four countries (Bangladesh, Cambodia, Pakistan and Vietnam). 

It also shows that heat and flooding will result in nearly 1 million fewer jobs created, due to slower growth from lost production.

The report also finds that heat and flooding risks are a widespread issue and not limited to the four countries mentioned above. Researchers analyzed the climate-vulnerability of 32 apparel production hubs and found that exposure to these risks is widespread. Specifically, Colombo, Managua, Chittagong, Port Louis (Mauritius), Yangon, Delhi, Bangkok and the Donguuan-Guangdong-Shenzen regions of China all stood out for their vulnerability.

In addition to the economic impacts, the report also highlights the human cost of climate change for apparel workers. Heat and flooding can have a serious impact on worker health and safety, leading to illnesses, injuries and lost wages. 

The report calls for brands, investors and regulators to take action to address these risks, including supporting adaptation measures, developing regulations that include standards and protocols for heat and flooding, and ensuring that social protection systems are in place for workers.

The report's findings are a wake-up call for the apparel industry. Climate change is a real and present danger, and the industry must take steps to mitigate its risks. By taking action now, the industry can protect its workers, its profits, and its future.

Nike is under intense scrutiny ahead of its upcoming online AGM on September 12. The company is facing mounting pressure for its refusal to pay over $2.2 million in unpaid wages and benefits to more than 4,000 garment workers since 2020. This stance has drawn unprecedented concern from investors, human rights groups, unions, and consumers. Nike's reputation on human rights has taken a severe hit as it fails to ensure basic rights for women workers in its supply chain, contradicting its own commitments and code of conduct.

In Cambodia, 1,284 workers at the Ramatex-owned Violet Apparel factory were laid off without receiving $1.4 million in legally owed benefits when the factory closed in July 2020. Astonishingly, Nike denies any connection to the factory, despite clear evidence. Similarly, over 3,000 Burmese migrant workers in Thailand were denied pandemic furlough pay totaling over $800,000, with pregnant workers suffering the most.

More than 50 human rights organizations and unions worldwide, including Human Rights Watch and Oxfam, have called on Nike to address these violations. Despite years of engagement, Nike defends its rights-abusing suppliers.

Violet Apparel workers have urged Nike's Thasunda Brown Duckett to use her position to seek justice, and major investors are now demanding Nike pay the owed $2.2 million. The situation remains dire for these workers and their families, emphasizing the urgency for Nike to act.

The Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics event of August 2023 provided a comprehensive snapshot of the textile industry's current state, with a particular focus on China. The event demonstrated that while challenges exist, opportunities for growth, sustainability, and innovation continue to shape the industry's future. As the textile landscape evolves, adapting to changing consumer demands and embracing technological advancements will be key for businesses to thrive in this dynamic environment. The world of fashion and textiles is undergoing a dynamic transformation, with the global backdrop of economic uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic, attendees were keen to analyze market conditions, particularly in China, which has traditionally played a pivotal role in the textile industry. Here are the key takeaways from the event:

Mixed fortunes in the textile industry

While the textile industry in China and some neighboring countries has witnessed significant changes, it is essential to recognize that the fortunes of textile businesses vary. Yuko Watanabe, Director of International Communication at Japan Fashion Week Organisation, pointed out that participation in the Japanese pavilion was lower compared to pre-COVID times, indicating a challenging environment for Japanese fashion in China.

Kim Bu-Heung, General Director of Korea Textile Center, noted that China had been a significant investment destination for Korean enterprises. However, the current low demand in China has translated into reduced exports and investment returns. This underscores the shift in China's textile landscape and its impact on neighboring countries.

On a more optimistic note, Jane Fang, from the Market Development Department at Taiwan Textile Federation, expressed satisfaction with the Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics event. Taiwan is recognized for its pioneering work in performance and functional textiles. 

Gulshan Arora, VP of Material Development for Lululemon based in Taiwan, attested to the remarkable growth of the Chinese market, emphasizing their billion-dollar business and a robust presence with over 100 stores in China.

Premium market exhibitors thrive in China

Alessandro Barber’s Canonico, President of Milano Unica and head of the Vitale Barberis Canonico fabric brand, and Director of Asia Marketing, Holland & Sherry echoed positive sentiments about the Chinese market. They reported continued growth and indicated that domestic demand for their premium products remained strong, despite challenges posed by the pandemic.

However, a notable exception was the Japanese market, which remains saturated for Holland & Sherry, with little room for growth. Additionally, the Hong Kong market faced difficulties, with disruptions in custom tailoring businesses.

Exhibitors highlight quality and diversity of buyers

One consistent theme among exhibitors was their appreciation for the quality and diversity of buyers at Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics. Rinoa Zong, Marketing Manager at Testex (Shanghai) Textile Testing Co Ltd, praised the organizers for gathering professional, high-quality buyers. She emphasized the increasing demand for transparency and sustainability in textiles, reflecting a broader industry trend.

Sustainability takes centerstage

Sustainability emerged as a dominant theme at the event. Luka Yuan, Brand Sales & Marketing Director at Unifi Textiles (Suzhou) Co Ltd, showcased the company's recycled brand REPREVE and other sustainable innovations. 

Buyers like Gulshan Kumar from Taiwan, Lululemon, expressed their focus on sustainable products, including those derived from ocean plastic and recycled textile waste.

Global participation and innovation

The event's global appeal was evident, with exhibitors from Italy, Korea, Japan, and other countries showcasing their innovative products. Buyers from various regions, including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, explored the offerings, reflecting the event's international influence.

AI and Design Trends

In addition to sustainability, AI and design trends were on full display. Cai Jiawei, Senior Consultant at POP Fashion, highlighted the role of AI in fashion design. He emphasized the importance of combining technology with human expertise to drive the fashion industry forward.

Fringe participants driving innovation

Fringe participants, such as AiDLab and Peclers Paris, showcased how they are contributing to industry innovation. AiDLab attracted attention with AI applications for fashion design and fabric inspection, while Peclers Paris presented a sustainable approach to design inspired by nature.

The Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition 2023 transcended expectations with its record international attendance, robust business results, and a spotlight on the transformative trends reshaping the textile industry. With digitalization, sustainability, and functional fashion at the forefront, this event solidified its status as a global textile powerhouse, setting the stage for future innovations and market advancements.

In a resounding success for the global textile industry, the Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition concluded in the end of August 2024, boasting remarkable business results and a notable 17% surge in international visitors compared to the spring edition. This annual event, renowned for its influence on the textile market, showcased nearly 4,000 exhibitors from 27 countries and regions, who were joined by an impressive contingent of 95,000 buyers from 117 countries and regions. This international convergence reinforced the fair's status as a pivotal meeting point for global industry players.

Digitalization, sustainability, and functional fashion take center stage

The fairgrounds buzzed with energy as attendees explored cutting-edge trends that are redefining the textile industry. Three core themes emerged as dominant forces at the event: digitalization, sustainability, and functional fashion. These pillars are reshaping the industry landscape, giving rise to innovative concepts and solutions. Among the standout innovations was the introduction of biodegradable raw materials and the unveiling of the groundbreaking artificial intelligence system, marking a pivotal moment in textile technology.

A comprehensive sourcing experience

For buyers, Intertextile Shanghai offered a comprehensive sourcing experience, underpinned by an array of options and resources. Over 40 seminars and forums provided valuable insights, enriching attendees with industry knowledge. Concurrently, Yarn Expo Autumn complemented the main event, further diversifying the sourcing opportunities available.

A reflection of optimism in the China market

Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, shared her optimistic perspective on the fair's outcome, emphasizing its significance as a catalyst for business growth in the Chinese market. She highlighted that participants universally expressed renewed hope and enthusiasm regarding their prospects in China. Shea described the fair as not merely an event but a cornerstone of the global textile market, where business and innovation converge. She noted the influx of discerning, quality-oriented buyers from around the world, affirming that exhibitors were not only meeting market demand but actively shaping it.

AI-Driven innovation takes the spotlight

The event served as a showcase for innovative breakthroughs, including the AI-based Interactive Design Assistant for Fashion (AiDA). AiDA, developed by AiDLab, revolutionized the Intertextile Directions Trend Forum by generating virtual outfits based on on-trend fabrics. This cutting-edge technology propelled the event into the future of fashion design.

Global diversity and sustainability

Intertextile Apparel consistently attracts a diverse array of international and domestic exhibitors and buyers, representing countries such as Belgium, France, Hong Kong China, Italy, India, Japan, Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan China, and the UK, among others. Notable industry leaders, including Ecocert, Hyosung, Korean Textile Center, Lenzing, Lycra, Oeko-Tex and Sorona, led group pavilions, further enriching the event's international diversity. Buyer feedback highlighted the remarkable product variety and sustainable options, underlining the fair's pivotal role in driving industry progress.

Unveiling innovative products

Several companies seized the opportunity to launch new products at the fair. Lenzing, for instance, expanded its ReFibra technology to its Ecovero branded viscose, enhancing the post-consumer fiber content of its products. Other notable debuts included Lycra introducing three new branded fibers, Unifi's unveiling of its Textile Takeback initiative, Guangdong DC Button's plant-based degradable button series, and Yantai Jihe Import & Export's Türkiye flocked denim fabrics, marking their introduction to the Chinese market.

Sustainability marks center of attention

The newly launched concept of 'Econogy,' representing the fusion of economy and ecology, highlighted the enduring impact of sustainability within Messe Frankfurt's Texpertise Network. Intertextile Apparel showcased the merits of sustainability, evident in the All About Sustainability zone and various eco-focused fringe events. Across all categories, exhibitors, visitors, and speakers left the fairground with a sense of accomplishment, having engaged in productive in-person business interactions.

 

IFCO Istanbul Fashion Connection marked its fourth edition with resounding success. The event, held from August 9 to 11 in Istanbul, showcased the city's growing prominence in the global fashion business. The numbers tell the story: a remarkable 30% increase in both exhibitors and visitors, including a staggering 140% surge in international attendees. The exhibition area also expanded significantly, boasting a 120% increase from the previous year's event.

Rapid international recognition

IFCO has swiftly carved its niche in international buyer groups as Europe's largest fashion and apparel fair. Mustafa Pasahan, Vice President IHKIB, proudly stated that on the first day alone, more than 2,500 international buyers from various countries, including Germany, Israel, Canada, Latin American nations, Malaysia, South Africa, the UK, the US, and the UAE, flocked to the event. It highlights IFCO's role in establishing Istanbul as a global fashion hub.

Turkey's competitive advantage

Turkey, as the EU's third-largest apparel supplier, excels in short delivery times, high production quality, and a well-trained workforce. It offers the advantage of small minimum order quantities and a vertically integrated textile and apparel industry. Turkey's strong focus on sustainable production and a circular garment economy reinforces its competitive position.

Nurturing design and talent

Turkey's prominence in design and trends is evident through investments in human resources, including vocational schools like KOZA Young Fashion Designers competition. Istanbul Moda Akademisi (IMA) serves as a vital design hub, producing graduates who make their mark on the international fashion stage. IMA's strategic partnership with the University of the Arts London/London College of Fashion strengthens its commitment to shaping the future of the industry.

Diverse exhibitors and exclusive Areas

The fair featured over 400 brands across six segmented halls, showcasing everything from womenswear to sportswear. The Core Istanbul and The Exclusive Area presented exclusive designs, while FashionIst showcased leading brands and the latest evening fashion trends.

Global visitor surge

IFCO recorded over 20,000 visitors from 125+ countries, with a visitor increase of over 30% compared to the previous year. International visitors more than doubled, emphasizing its global appeal.

Successful B2B networking

The B2B Match Making at IFCO facilitated efficient networking between exhibitors and global buyers, resulting in numerous orders and collaboration opportunities.

Supporting program highlights

The gala event and IFCO Seminars and Shows provided insights into industry trends, sustainability, and technology. The IFCO Trend Area showcased the "New Gen" collections of İMA graduates, offering a glimpse into future fashion trends.

Next stop: IFCO February 2024

IFCO's next edition in February 2024 expects participation from more than 600 companies, aiming to expand its international reach as the ideal gateway into European and Asian markets. Istanbul, as a global trade and cultural hub, continues to shine as the ultimate destination for fashion and innovation. Don't miss the next Istanbul Fashion Connection on 7th-10th February 2024.  

Better Cotton, the world's largest cotton sustainability initiative, has released its 2023 India Impact Report. It highlights substantial progress in reducing pesticide and water usage, enhancing farmer livelihoods, and promoting equality.

The report covers Indian cotton farmers in the Better Cotton Programme from 2014/15 to 2021/22. It explores the benefits of sustainable cotton production for people and the environment. It delves into various aspects of Better Cotton production, from resource utilization to farming community dynamics.

Since its launch in 2011, the Better Cotton Programme in India has grown from tens of thousands to nearly one million farmers. The report shows a 53% reduction in pesticide use due to Integrated Pest Management training and awareness campaigns. Highly hazardous pesticides use decreased from 64% to 10%, and Monocrotophos usage dropped from 41% to 2%.

Water usage for irrigation decreased by 29%, and nitrogen application decreased by 6%.Farmers' total costs per hectare decreased by 15.6%, with an average cotton lint yield 200kg per hectare higher than the national average. The number of women in Better Cotton Field Staff increased from 10% to over 25% in recent years.

The report celebrates progress, identifies development gaps, and focuses on improving communities growing cotton in India. Better Cotton now monitors year-on-year progress, emphasizing continuous improvement. Alan McClay, CEO of Better Cotton, reaffirmed their commitment to furthering farm-level improvements in India.

The UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT), the British Fashion Council (BFC), and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) have launched the Circular Fashion Innovation Network (CFIN) to champion circularity within the UK fashion and textile industry.

The network will bring together industry stakeholders, innovators, investors, academia, and a wider spectrum of interested parties to fast-track the UK's fashion economy into a leading position in the realm of circular fashion.

The CFIN will focus on six key areas:

• Circular business models: Reducing waste and overproduction through the incorporation of circular business practices and consideration of regulatory changes.

• Recycling infrastructure: Optimizing closed-loop recycling processes, forming partnerships, and laying the foundations for extended producer responsibility (EPR).

• Sustainable manufacturing: Achieving lower environmental impact by enhancing supply chain resilience, forging deeper connections between brands and manufacturers, and scaling digital traceability tools.

• Novel technology: Expanding and integrating innovative technologies that support circular fashion.

• Diverse and future-proof workforce: Upskilling the workforce and building a diverse and future-proof talent pipeline to address skills gaps.

• Green growth: Creating economically viable Circular Fashion Products, services, and intellectual property, while promoting responsible design, retail, and manufacturing.

The CFIN will be funded by a £1.8 million allocation from the BFC and UKFT. It will be overseen by an advisory board with representatives from a diverse range of businesses, academia, and NGOs.

The launch of the CFIN is a significant step forward in the UK's journey towards a more circular fashion industry. The network will provide a platform for collaboration and innovation, and it is hoped that it will help to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future.

Bangladesh's ready-made garment (RMG) exports to the United States in July 2023 saw a significant growth of 7.80%, reaching $748.03 million compared to $693.92 million in the same month of 2022.

This growth came after five consecutive months of decline in Bangladesh's RMG exports to the US. The decline was attributed to the economic slowdown and high inflation in the Western market, primarily driven by the Russia-Ukraine war.

Despite the challenges, Bangladesh outperformed its competitors, such as China and Vietnam, on the global market. In the first seven months of 2023, Bangladesh retained its position as the third-largest apparel exporter to the US market, holding a 9.91% share.

Faruque Hassan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, stated that work orders have started to increase in recent months, indicating a potential rebound in apparel exports in the Western market in the coming months.

The data from the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) also revealed that India's RMG exports to the US market from January to July 2023 decreased by 21.12% to $2.91 billion compared to $3.69 billion in the same period the previous year.

Furthermore, US RMG imports from Indonesia in the first seven months of 2023 declined by 27.25% to $2.47 billion, while imports from Cambodia fell by 32.10% to $1.79 billion during the same period.

Overall, the data suggests that the US apparel market is still facing challenges, but Bangladesh is well-positioned to capitalize on any rebound in demand.