Nestled in the tranquil environs of Thulhiriya, Sri Lanka, MAS Fabric Park (MFP) stands out as a revolutionary force in the apparel industry, pioneering sustainable practices that redefine the global benchmark. 

Embracing a vision of positive change, MFP's unwavering commitment to sustainability is evident throughout its operations, from water management and waste reduction to energy generation and biodiversity restoration.

Comprehensive Water Management

MFP's centralized water management system, operating at a capacity of 9000 cubic meters per day, eliminates the need for redundant in-house treatment plants, optimizing resources and curbing environmental impact. Strict adherence to global-level ZDHC standards ensures fully treated discharges, safeguarding aquatic ecosystems.

Waste Reduction

MFP has pioneered sustainable management of textile sludge, a globally concerning area related to the industry. Through solar and thermal drying-based reductions, dried sludge co-processing for energy recovery, and eco-brick production, MFP has significantly reduced its waste footprint and achieved circularity. 

Even the ultimate byproduct of textile wastewater treatment sludge finds purpose in products like the Eco Brick, used in constructing the chalets at MAS Athena and also across other construction needs of the entity, whilst biological waste is being diverted for composting for nurturing plants, aligning seamlessly with the concept of waste-to-energy and waste-to-value.

Solar Revolution

MFP's 24 MW solar capacity is a groundbreaking achievement, decreasing its carbon footprint by 20 tons annually. This milestone solidifies its status as the largest multi-site rooftop solar project in Sri Lanka under a single business entity.

Analog Forest and Biodiversity Restoration

MFP's 9.7-acre "Thuruwadula" analog forest serves multiple roles as a sanctuary for preserving biodiversity, a model for adapting to climate change, and a valuable educational resource. Endangered endemic plant species, Ayurvedic and medicinal plants, and numerous animal species have found a home in Thuruwadula.

Long-Term Commitment and Future Prospects

MFP's commitment to sustainability is unwavering, with ambitious goals to reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 25% by 2025. The Park plans to expand its solar capacity and continue its role as a leader in sustainable practices, setting new benchmarks for a brighter future.

MAS Fabric Park: A Beacon of Hope

In an industry often criticized for its environmental impact, MAS Fabric Park is a beacon of hope. It is a testament to the fact that businesses can be forces for good, harmonizing with the environment to create a more sustainable future.

The impact of climate change is here and how.  Random flooding is commonplace and summer heat waves are the new normal. Analysis by Cornell University’s Global Labor Institute and Schroders, which has studied four important readymade garment manufacturing countries, namely, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Cambodia and Vietnam, has pointed out some disturbing facts about the global apparel manufacturing sector. The four countries as a collective could lose up to $65 billion which is 22 per cent of lost exports and 950,000 lesser jobs by 2030. 

With factories closing due to flood damages and insufficient insurance back up to reconstruct them as well as intolerable heat creating a slump in labour productivity, by 2050, these four countries are going to find themselves at the edge of a complete wipeout with job losses of 8.6 million and a loss of exports amounting to nearly 69 per cent. For these four economies which rely heavily on the apparel manufacturing and export sector for foreign exchange reserves and employment, it spells a socio-economic disaster of huge proportions, forcing parts of their population to seek illegal immigration. 

The writing is on the wall 

Researchers looked at the climate vulnerable apparel industries in Bangladesh, Cambodia, Pakistan and Vietnam, which collectively represent 18 per cent of global apparel exports, house approximately 10,000 apparel and footwear factories and employ 10.6 million workers. The Schroder’s study in association with Cornell University mapped out the supply chains of six unidentified global apparel brands operating in the four countries studied, and found all six would be hit materially. The impact would be severe as one of the six brands studied would stand to lose around 5 per cent of its operating profits. This report may have provided a jarring reality check to the global apparel manufacturing, export and import sector but they may have not been able to impress either buying brands an, investors or manufacturers. 

What experts say

 In a communiqué, Angus Bauer, Head of Sustainable Investment Research at Schroders commented: “This research highlights the urgent need for action. Investors must begin to engage with apparel companies and their stakeholders to ensure they start to measure and address the significant challenges of physical climate impacts on workers and business models. Furthermore, apparel companies must look to partner with suppliers, and work with peers, worker organisations and policy makers to design suitable adaptation strategies that consider the impact on workers. Adaptation planning could have positive returns on investment for the industry and is a critical addition to mitigation efforts.” 

Cornell University’s Global Labor Institute’s executive director Jason Judd opined, “The apparel industry and regulators have mostly framed their climate responses around mitigation issues—emissions, water usage, and recycled fabrics. They are ignoring the climate issues that are dramatically and directly affecting suppliers and their workers now. The Global North’s climate nightmares are already in evidence in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Cambodia and elsewhere. Life, let alone work, will become very difficult in these and many other hotspots that apparel brands and retailers depend on for production.”

Schroders initiative to arrest losses

Schroders, which manages over $874 billion in assets, are keen to increase engagement with companies over their disclosures and they have called on firms to work with suppliers and policymakers to build adaptation strategies that consider the impact on workers. Using projections, researchers analyzed future heat and flooding levels to estimate what would happen under a "climate adaptive" scenario and a "high heat and flooding" scenario. 

Under the second, workers would suffer more "heat stress", with worker output declining as the wet-bulb globe temperature, which measures heat and humidity, rises. According to Bauer, all stakeholders need to be transparent and report the correct figures and incidences to enable a robust correctional model as the way forward. 

Better Cotton, the world's largest cotton sustainability initiative, is set to launch a strategic partnership in Spain with a high-profile event in Seville. This initiative will bring together key stakeholders, including the Inter professional Cotton Association (Espalgodon) and the Regional Government of Andalucia, who have played a pivotal role in aligning the regional government's Integrated Production System (IPS) with the Better Cotton Standard System (BCSS). These efforts aim to enhance the sustainability of cotton production in Spain.

Espalgodon, representing all cotton farmers in Spain, expressed interest in collaborating on sustainable cotton production in 2021. Subsequently, Better Cotton worked closely with the Regional Government of Andalucia, Spain's primary cotton-growing region, to recognize IPS as equivalent to BCSS. This recognition will enable cotton from IPS-licensed farms to be labeled as 'Better Cotton,' offering assurances of sustainability to consumers.

The strategic partnership seeks to address challenges posed by climate change, with a projected 48% decrease in cotton production for the 2023/24 season due to drought-related crop issues. Through collaboration, Better Cotton aims to leverage local expertise and networks while ensuring compliance with global sustainability standards.

Alan McClay, CEO of Better Cotton, highlighted the significance of this partnership in enhancing the resilience of Spanish cotton farming against climate change impacts. The agreement signing marks the start of this promising collaboration.

India's technical textiles exports are poised for significant growth in the upcoming years, as the country is only just beginning to tap into this sector, according to Badresh Dodhia, Chairman of the Synthetic and Rayon Textiles Export Promotion Council (SRTEPC).

Within the realm of man-made fibers (MMF), technical textiles currently constitute 30 percent of total exports, signaling the early stages of India's foray into this field. Technical textiles are essential components in various industries, including sportswear, fire-resistant materials, geo-textiles, construction, agro-tech, industrial technology, and home furnishings.

Germany currently holds the lion's share, accounting for 60 percent of the global technical textiles market. These textiles are renowned for their exceptional strength, surpassing even that of steel, and find applications in industries like rocket manufacturing.

Dodhia emphasized that technical textiles could serve as the driving force behind MMF exports. In contrast, India's textile exports have traditionally been dominated by cotton, comprising 60-65 percent of the total. This contrasts with the global market, where MMF makes up 70 percent of total textile demand. India's lower share in the textile export market presents an opportunity, and the country could become a preferred supplier of MMF.

Over the past five years, there has been a consistent 10 percent Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) in MMF demand, following a period of stagnation from 2014 to 2018. Dodhia attributed this growth to increasing awareness among Indian consumers, which has reduced the need for export incentives.

The Indian government is also playing a role in promoting the growth of the MMF sector. The Ministry of Textiles has urged the association to develop a brand that represents MMF in the global market, similar to the Kasturi brand for cotton. Additionally, the government has launched the Productivity-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme in the MMF sector, which has been successful in promoting growth.

Unlike cotton, MMF prices are less volatile and are influenced by crude oil prices. This stability, coupled with the sustainability factor of MMF, makes it an attractive option for the textile industry. MMF is recyclable, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's endorsement of a jacket made from waste plastic bottles has given a significant boost to the sector. Furthermore, MMF is being utilized in the uniforms for legislative staff in the new Parliament building.

Overall, the outlook for India's technical textiles exports is positive. The country has the potential to become a major player in this sector, given its strong MMF foundation and government support.

Producing a complete garment in a single piece, without any seams at all, yet with an integrated body mapping design – this is made possible by KARL MAYER’s double-needle-bar raschel machines with EL pattern drive and jacquard.

WARP KNIT SEAMLESS

The KARL MAYER GROUP showed a chic example under WARP KNIT SEAMLESS with a sports dress that attracted attention at ITMA 2023. The trendy outfit can be made on a DJ 6/2 EL or RDPJ 6/2 EL in gauge E28 and offers all the performance features of functional sportswear: breathability through open areas in exposed places, freedom of movement and quick drying. It also feels right. The fabric is soft and supple, thanks to the use of polyamide.

There was a lot of chatter in Milan, particularly about the ready-to-wear top and leggings set. Both elements simply need to be cut out of the manufactured panels. This decreases sewing effort and waste. Depending on the size and cut, the proportion of fabric to be disposed of is around 15% for leggings and around 5% for tops. When producing tops, only the shoulders and neck need to be cut out – the arms and torso are made ready to use directly on the machine. In addition to these advantages, this “WARP KNIT SEAMLESS” technology offers the possibility to efficiently produce mass products with customisations, such as logos, and items at customers’ request.

INNOVATIVE FASHIONABLE 3D SEAMLESS

An exciting look and comfortable feel are offered by a completely new seamless warp knitted fabric that cleverly combines three-dimensional and open structures in a single textile. The plastic pattern parts create extravagant irregular surface effects, paired with very fine yarns for a soft handle, yet the fabric only comes into partial contact with the skin. 

They are produced using the jacquard bars of a specified machine, a DJ 6/2 EL or RDPJ 6/2 EL, each with a gauge of E28. The jacquard bars process a polyamide yarn with an elastane cover in alternating lapping with long float stitches, which creates plasticity by shrinking during finishing. The jacquard bars allow the design elements to be placed as desired. The fact that the garments can produced almost entirely directly on the machine is another distinct advantage. Only a few processing steps are required until the item is finished.

4D-KNIT – THE NEXT GENERATION OF SPACER FABRICS

When the spacer layer of 3D warp knitted fabrics is filled with bulked yarn, previously unattainable performance features and surface designs can be created. Smooth patterns, two-tone colouring, breathable mesh zones and – in a new development – clearly pronounced relief parts with individual placements and dimensions are all possible. Depending on the amount of filling and the design of the plastic motifs, a wide variety of textile solutions are possible; the product repertoire ranges from breathable fabrics, e.g. for functional shoes, to cosily padded and warm jacket fabrics.

The new spacer warp knitted fabrics are produced on a RDPJ6 6/2 EL FB, in gauge E28.

More than 30 textile manufacturing executives from 15 countries will visit the U.S. Cotton Belt September 30-October 7 on the 42nd COTTON USA Orientation Tour. The tour, sponsored by Cotton Council International (CCI), is designed to increase U.S. cotton customers' awareness of the types/qualities of U.S. cotton, help them gain a better understanding of U.S. marketing practices, and enhance their relationships with U.S. exporters.

This year's tour participants will visit a Mid-South cotton farm and gin, tour a farm and cotton warehouse in Texas, tour a Pima cotton farm in California, observe cotton research in North Carolina and Mississippi, and tour the USDA cotton classing office in Bartlett, Tennessee. They will also meet with U.S. cotton exporters and get briefings from CCI, the National Cotton Council (NCC), Cotton Incorporated, ACSA, the Texas Cotton Association, the Lubbock Cotton Exchange, Amcot, the American Cotton Producers, the Delta Council, Plains Cotton Growers, Inc., the Western Cotton Shippers Association, and Supima.

The COTTON USA Orientation Tour is a vital event for the U.S. cotton industry. For over half a century, this event has enabled the industry to showcase its high-quality U.S. cotton fiber to important international spinners and build and strengthen relationships with these customers.

The Renewable Materials Conference (RMC) is a leading event that showcases all renewable materials at one place. The conference will be held in Siegburg/Cologne, Germany, from June 11-13, 2024.

The RMC is a unique event that brings together industry, academia, and politics to discuss the latest innovations and implementations in renewable materials. The conference will feature over 80 presentations, 20 panel discussions, and several workshops.

The RMC is a must-attend event for anyone interested in the future of the chemicals and materials industry. The conference is a great opportunity to learn about the latest trends in renewable materials, meet with industry leaders, and network with other professionals.

Call for Abstracts and Innovations

Producers and inventors of innovative technologies and applications based on biomass, CO2, or advanced recycling are invited to submit their innovations for the Innovation Award “Renewable Material of the Year 2024”. The deadline for submission is February 28, 2024.

Industry officials emphasized the need for a comprehensive, forward-thinking strategy to capitalize on global market opportunities for the textile and clothing sectors, which play a significant role in India's economy.

The sectors contribute Rs 30,000 crore in GST revenue and generate USD 44 billion in foreign exchange earnings, but have faced challenges in recent times, including structural issues related to raw materials, high production costs, and operational scale.

SIMA highlighted these concerns as obstacles to their continued growth and success.

Gartex Texprocess India, the premier event in the garment and textile industry, recently wrapped up its New Delhi edition with resounding success. The trade fair, which showcased advanced innovations in textiles and garments, attracted a substantial number of visitors, highlighting the industry's growth.

Record breaking footfall

The event drew 14,895 trade visitors from 384 Indian cities, 28 Indian states, 7 Union Territories, and 27 countries, affirming its international significance. Renowned brands like Jaysynth, Epson, and Brother showcased their cutting-edge products, contributing to the event's success.

Positive industry response

Morgan Technica's Country Manager, Mr. Prakhar, expressed satisfaction with the show's response, particularly for their cutting room solutions. Colorjet's Vice President, Mr. Arun Varshney, also noted a good response from customers.

Engaging displays and sustainability focus

Live demonstrations and engaging displays at the Surat Pavilion, Screen-Print India, and Fabrics & Trims zones left visitors impressed. The Denim Show, in partnership with the Denim Manufacturers Association, highlighted sustainability with artistic installations.

Industry insights

Sessions at the event focused on sustainability in textile manufacturing and technological advancements in the industry. Industry experts discussed schemes and initiatives to promote sustainability, emphasizing the need for awareness and community involvement.

Optimistic outlook

Gartex Texprocess India's success has ignited optimism in the industry. Gaurav Juneja, Director of MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, praised the event's potential and government initiatives. Raj Manek, Executive Director of Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Pvt Ltd, expressed pleasure in the event's success and looked forward to the next edition.

Future endeavors

The next edition of Gartex Texprocess India is scheduled for February 1-3, 2024, at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai, promising to continue showcasing high-end innovations in the textile and garment sector.

Wazir Advisors September 2023 report spanning June and July 2023 reveal not much has changed since August in terms of Western import of apparels and India’s exports. Comparing the stats in August and the soon-to-be-published report, shows no newsworthy changes but more affirmation that apparel imports are currently low in Western markets and a stagnation in Japan, having experienced a rise only in June – the stagnation started in July and continued into August 2023. Indian exports continue to lose ground, which may lead to speculation about 2024 being the year of a big comeback.  

Indian apparel exporters continue underperforming

The report shows, the total value of Indian apparel export in 2022 was at $15 billion and between January and August 2023 only $10.2 billion has been achieved. In August 2023, India’s apparel exports were estimated at $1.1 billion, 22 per cent lower than in August 2022. On a year-to-date basis, that reads 14 per cent lower than exports achieved in 2022 but an improvement of 1 per cent based on August 2023 stats. 

Overall, some interesting picture emerges. In 2022, India’s export to the US was at 35 per cent but between January and July this year, it stands at 33 per cent only. It is by the end of the year, it will be known if India managed to retain, gain or lose US orders. UK, UAE and France remain the same and Germany has dropped by 1 per cent in the months January to July 2023 compared to the entire year of 2022 and there is a possibility of recovery during upcoming winter festivities. 

Readymade garment imports remain depressed in the West

In July 2023, US apparel imports were $7.7 billion, which is 17 per cent lower than July 2022. On year-to-date (YTD) basis, imports were 21 per cent lower than in 2022. It seems, Bangladesh was gaining China’s market share in the US but it too lost 3 per cent since 2021. The EU’s apparel imports in June 2023 were $7 billion which is 10 per cent lower than June 2022. On YTD basis, the imports were 4 per cent lower than in 2022 but there may be a spike during the upcoming festive season to shorten the deficit. The UK’s apparel imports in July 2023 were $1.5 billion, 21 per cent lower than in July 2022. On YTD basis, the imports were 15 per cent lower than in 2022. In July 2023, Japan’s apparel imports were $1.9 billion, similar to that in July 2022. On YTD basis also, the imports have not changed. 

Domestic retail faring better than imports in UK, US

In the UK, Q2 2023 saw online sales of clothing registering a growth of 10 per cent over Q2 2022. In the same period, it was a different story in the US as it witnessed a negligible 1 per cent growth in Q2 2023 over Q2 2022. In July 2023, UK’s monthly apparel store sales were £3.7 billion which is 3 per cent higher than in July 2022. On YTD basis, sales were 9 per cent higher than in 2022. In the UK, e-commerce continues to grow more than purchases in physical retail outlets as a key factor being higher fuel costs hindering commuting. 

In August 2023, US monthly apparel store sales were estimated at $19.2 billion, 8 per cent more than in August 2022. On YTD basis, sales in 2023 are 5 per cent higher than in 2022. In the US, surprisingly defying global trends, sales of home furnishing are dropping steadily. August 2023’s home furnishing store sales were estimated at $4.6 billion which is 16 per cent lower than in August 2022. On YTD basis, sales are 3 per cent lower than in 2022.