The Philippine government is actively pursuing the inclusion of its garment exports in the renewed preferential trading scheme with the United States. 

With the local industry currently valued at approximately $1.5 billion annually, updated Philippine Export Development Plan, set to launch this week, will prioritize the goal of incorporating the country's garment exports into the US Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). 

The move aims to level the playing field for local producers and exporters, allowing them to compete effectively with garments from the Americas in the US market. Furthermore, the inclusion of garments in the US GSP would invigorate the industry, generating more employment opportunities due to its labor-intensive nature. 

While the Philippines' eligibility for the US GSP expired in 2020, the country is actively advocating for its renewal. 

The trade preference program grants zero duties to 3,500 Philippine exports, amounting to $1.6 billion in value in 2020, including products such as tires, bags, insulated electric conductors, sugar, non-alcoholic beverages, and hair dryers.

The ILO and IFC have introduced the Better Work program in Uzbekistan, aiming to improve working conditions and competitiveness in the textile and garment industry. On May 30, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by the IFC, ILO, Uzbekistan's government, employers, and workers' organizations, outlining the program's terms. Better Work will focus on compliance assessments, training, and advisory services to promote labor standards and enhance competitiveness in textile and garment factories.

This partnership is a significant step for Uzbekistan's cotton, textile, and garment production, opening doors to new export markets. As a leading cotton producer, Uzbekistan has undergone notable reforms. Better Work will play a crucial role in upholding labor standards across the country's textile and garment factories, acting as an industry facilitator.

The program seeks to support sustainable growth in the sector, creating decent job opportunities, especially for women in rural areas. Conor Boyle, Officer-in-Charge of Better Work, emphasized the program's dedication to this objective.

The MoU builds on collaborative efforts among the Uzbek government, World Bank Group, ILO, and other stakeholders to enhance labor and environmental standards in cotton fields. Since 2016, the IFC has provided advisory support and investments to Uzbekistan's cotton and textile industry. In 2022, the ILO successfully eradicated systemic child and forced labor from Uzbekistan's cotton production cycle. Initial funding for the Better Work Uzbekistan program was contributed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

Sri Lanka's MAS Holdings has become the first partner to receive Vizoo accreditation for material digitization services. Their cutting-edge digital material service hub serves brands and vendors seeking source-based digitization capabilities. 

The apparel industry's Digital Product Creation (DPC) is thriving, driven by post-pandemic agility and efficiency. Accurate digital twins are crucial for faster time-to-market, enhancing product appeal and profitability. Digital materials play a vital role in capturing textures, colors, and properties that affect garment aesthetics and fit. Tharindu Meemaduma, MAS Holdings' Director of Innovation, highlights Vizoo's technology for achieving unparalleled realism and aligning digitization processes with industry standards. 

To meet the rising demand for digital materials, MAS established a dedicated digitization unit in 2020, recognized by Vizoo for maintaining high standards. With expertise in DPC, MAS creates digital twins at various sampling stages, enabling accurate decision-making and translation from digital to physical products. 

Their material digitization center supports their end-to-end DPC strategy, providing world-class services. 

Anupama Fernando, Group Lead DPC, emphasizes MAS Holdings' commitment to future-proofing through Digital Product Creation, constantly improving their processes and skill set.

A recent report by Solidaridad Europe and the Pesticide Action Network UK (PAN UK) reveals that the majority of top brands and retailers' sustainability reports, filled with flowery language and jargon, are misleading when it comes to their actual performance, particularly in the cotton sector. According to the 2023 Cotton Ranking, a staggering 89% of these companies lack transparency, sustainability, and show minimal progress in improving labor conditions.

The discouraging statistics shed light on the fact that numerous feasible actions are already available to corporations to mitigate or even reverse the severe environmental and social impacts of cotton production they heavily rely on. However, the rankings expose that most major companies fail to meet even the basic certification requirements for the cotton they purchase, rendering their sustainability claims empty words.

Only nine of the world's largest cotton-sourcing companies, including Decathlon, H&M, Ikea, Adidas, Columbia, Marks & Spencer, C&A, Lojas Renner, and Puma, source 99% of their cotton from certified sources, demonstrating a notable commitment to responsible practices.

The overwhelming majority of international brands, constituting 89%, are still non-transparent, unsustainable, and show limited progress in improving labor conditions. 

The release of the 2023 Cotton Ranking and the accompanying paper, 'Cotton and Corporate Responsibility,' by Solidaridad Europe and PAN UK highlights the need for urgent action and collaboration among major stakeholders in the cotton sector.A recent report by Solidaridad Europe and the Pesticide Action Network UK (PAN UK) reveals that the majority of top brands and retailers' sustainability reports, filled with flowery language and jargon, are misleading when it comes to their actual performance, particularly in the cotton sector. According to the 2023 Cotton Ranking, a staggering 89% of these companies lack transparency, sustainability, and show minimal progress in improving labor conditions.

The discouraging statistics shed light on the fact that numerous feasible actions are already available to corporations to mitigate or even reverse the severe environmental and social impacts of cotton production they heavily rely on. However, the rankings expose that most major companies fail to meet even the basic certification requirements for the cotton they purchase, rendering their sustainability claims empty words.

Only nine of the world's largest cotton-sourcing companies, including Decathlon, H&M, Ikea, Adidas, Columbia, Marks & Spencer, C&A, Lojas Renner, and Puma, source 99% of their cotton from certified sources, demonstrating a notable commitment to responsible practices.

The overwhelming majority of international brands, constituting 89%, are still non-transparent, unsustainable, and show limited progress in improving labor conditions. The release of the 2023 Cotton Ranking and the accompanying paper, 'Cotton and Corporate Responsibility', by Solidaridad Europe and PAN UK highlights the need for urgent action and collaboration among major stakeholders in the cotton sector.

The National Union of Textile Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria has expressed its willingness to collaborate with Governor Uba Sani's administration in Kaduna State to revive the dormant textile industries in the region. 

The positive outcomes of functional textile industries, such as providing employment opportunities for unemployed youths and reducing insecurity. 

The union president stressed the importance of social justice for sustainable peace and security, emphasizing the need for urgent re-industrialization in Kaduna State and mass employment of the unemployed youth population. The union pledged its support and cooperation as a key stakeholder in the state's development, particularly in reviving the textile industry and creating jobs.

Textile Yarn Market is estimated to be valued at USD 14.4 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2023 to 2028, reaching USD 18.5 billion. The expanding middle class in emerging economies is a key factor fueling the demand for textile yarn, as affordable and fashionable clothing becomes increasingly sought after, according to a report by Markets and Markets.

Technological advancements have also played a crucial role, enabling the development of specialized yarns with enhanced properties such as moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, and eco-friendly characteristics. These innovations have driven the demand for technical textiles across various sectors including apparel, medical, sports, automotive, and aerospace.

The plant segment is expected to exhibit the highest growth during the forecast period, driven by the rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products. Plant-based yarns like cotton, hemp, linen, and bamboo, derived from natural sources, are preferred by environmentally conscious consumers due to their biodegradability, renewability, and lower carbon footprint.

Within the artificial yarn category, the polyester segment is anticipated to dominate the market in 2023. Polyester yarn's exceptional durability, strength, and resistance to abrasion, wrinkles, and stretching make it suitable for diverse textile applications. Its cost-effectiveness further contributes to its popularity, particularly in mass production and budget-conscious markets.

Minister of Commerce Pan Sorasak called on all relevant parties to cooperate in exploring the feasibility of establishing a free trade agreement (FTA) between Cambodia and Japan, driven by a significant increase in Cambodian exports to Japan this year. 

Speaking at a trade facilitation and digitalization seminar attended by business leaders from both nations, the minister emphasized the need to strengthen the full implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) and the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (AJCEP). 

He encouraged the chambers of commerce in both countries to consider signing a memorandum of understanding to enhance economic, trade, and investment cooperation. With Cambodia's exports to Japan reaching $442 million in the first five months of this year, the minister highlighted the potential FTA's benefits in expanding market access, driving economic development, and generating income and employment opportunities. Cambodia currently holds bilateral FTAs with China and South Korea, and recently announced a Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement with the United Arab Emirates. Prime Minister Hun Sen also praised the growing trade relationship with Japan, emphasizing its significance as the largest buyer of Cambodian goods. 

The countries are celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2023, marking a new era of a comprehensive strategic partnership that is expected to attract more Japanese investment and create a broader market for Cambodian products. 

In a meeting with the Japanese ambassador, the Minister of Tourism emphasized the importance of resuming flights by All Nippon Airways to facilitate bilateral trade. 

The Cambodia Chamber of Commerce plans to sign a memorandum of understanding with its Japanese counterpart to further strengthen investment and trade ties.

Eight modest fashion shows took place on May 20 during Modest Fashion Day within the International Economic Summit ‘Russia – Islamic world: Kazan Forum’, powered by Russian Fashion Council and Digital Talents Dubai Milano. 

15 designers from Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Senegal, as well as 5 Russian cities presented their collections, including Abzaeva (Ulan Ude, Russia) / Gapanovich (Murmansk, Russia), Aida Kaume NOVA (Kazakhstan), HADÁMI (Makhachkala, Russia), SAHARA (Ufa, Russia), SANET / Keewa (Indonesia), Su.Su (Kazan, Russia), UMMAYA (Grozny, Russia), Senegal Fashion Show: Couleur Afrique, Touty, Kamal Raw, Edg.mery, SidyCounda, and Al Gueye (Senegal). 

The event was arranged in Korston- Kazan – a hotel, shopping, and entertainment mall.

 To Know More Visit: Press Release

Visit this link to see collections of Designers

Eight modest fashion shows took place on May 20 during Modest Fashion Day within the International Economic Summit ‘Russia – Islamic world: KazanForum’, powered by Russian Fashion Council and Digital Talents Dubai Milano. 

15 designers from Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Senegal, as well as 5 Russian cities presented their collections, including Abzaeva (Ulan Ude, Russia) / Gapanovich (Murmansk, Russia), Aida KaumeNOVA (Kazakhstan), HADÁMI (Makhachkala, Russia), SAHARA (Ufa, Russia), SANET / Keewa (Indonesia), Su.Su (Kazan, Russia), UMMAYA (Grozny, Russia), Senegal Fashion Show: Couleur Afrique, Touty, Kamal Raw, Edg.mery, Sidy Counda, and Al Gueye (Senegal). The event was arranged in Korston-Kazan – a hotel, shopping, and entertainment mall.

Senegal Fashion Show: Couleur Afrique, Touty, Kamal Raw, Edg.mery, Sidy Counda, and Al Gueye (Senegal)

For the first time, 6 designers from West Africa, already well-known in their home region, demonstrated looks from their collections to the Russian audience. This show was supported by Kalinka, Russian culture center. 

Designers from Senegal make clothes using traditions as an inspiration, from natural materials popular in West Africa, including Bazin, Manjack, and cotton waxprint materials. Their looks are reminiscent of traditional African wear – bubu, as well as vividly colored sarafans that Russians are familiar with, but with common local prints. 

Catwalk: https://disk.yandex.ru/d/GBY4MVvFCYzP0A

Su.Su (Kazan, Russia)

Su.Su, a Tatar clothing brand, brought to the catwalk a collection of linen and cotton dress-shirts, skirts, and bathrobes, all in pastel shades. The designer explained that in this collection they used only breathable and hypoallergenic fabrics – cotton, linen, tencel, and nettle cloth. Loose simply cut silhouettes with unique elements make movement especially comfortable.

Catwalk: https://disk.yandex.ru/d/ENIyluYm14WYTw 

Aida KaumeNOVA (Kazakhstan)

Aida KaumeNOVA brand was established in 2007, in Almaty, by Aida Kaumenova. Clothes made by this Kazakhstan-based designer are sold in 4 stores throughout the country, as well as across the globe – in the CIS countries, Europe, America, and Asia. The fashion house makes Luxe, Pret-a-porte and Mass-market wear.

After her education in Italy, the designer came back to Kazakhstan, willing to change the local attitude to traditional clothing. Many people thought of it as archaic, but Aida was positive that it can be fashionable, fit for modern life and conditions. She had no doubt that this Kazakh ethnic fashion can find its place in a modern wardrobe.

The new collection presented at Modest Fashion Day including dresses, skirts, jackets, and suits in the warm color palette, from pink and terra-cotta to brown and blue. The assortment of fabrics used included lace, and florals, and gaugre, as well as laconic restrained textiles.

Catwalk: https://disk.yandex.ru/d/kJ-Q4UJzC41Vlw 

UMMAYA (Grozny, Russia)

UMMAYA fashion house was established by designer Ummaya Akhmadova and her team in 2015, in Chechnya. Today, all of the brand’s wear is made in Moscow and at their own production site in Stavropol. Ummaya, the founder of the brand, was brought up in a traditional family, and that’s why she tends to classical and feminine austere silhouettes.

In particular, the brand aims to preserve, develop, and promote Muslim culture and traditions. The designer prefers hand-made embroidery, 3D applique, and lace to flow-line prints. Their collections include references to some works of art, too – mainly impressionists.  For her show at Modest Fashion Day, the designer chose motives of ancestral towers, typical for the Nakh architecture and common all over the North Caucasus, so to share the local atmosphere.  

Catwalk: https://disk.yandex.ru/d/MWJ8iVvG_2UQ6w 

SAHARA (Ufa, Russia)

The looks created by this modest fashion brand from Bashkiria stand out thanks to smooth silhouettes, bold prints and combinations. This is indeed an up-to-date take on traditional modest fashion wear. The collection of the brand comprises traditional clothes like abayas, hijabs, mullet pants, and some more modern pieces – dresses, skirts, shirts, pants, kimonos, and sportwear, including burkini swimming suits, accessories, and headwear. The designer experiments with denim and the casual style at the confluence with conventional fashion. 

Designer Zainab Sitdikova, the founder of the brand, outlined that her brand aims to offer Muslim women trendy and comfortable wear in compliance with their values, which at the same time will be good for modern life.

Catwalk: https://disk.yandex.ru/d/f6oZ_xos2PmyoQ 

HADÁMI (Makhachkala, Russia)

The Dagestan-based modest fashion brand HADÁMI was established in 2018 by two sisters – Khadizhat and Aminat Magomedrasulov. The concept of the brand is a new take on the modest clothes, which are no longer seen as austere wear for Muslim women. Today, modest fashion is more than a tradition. It is a lifestyle, based on the idea of one’s connection to their historical roots, of comfort, uniqueness and multilayerdness as the cornerstones of modern life. That’s why the looks designed by the brand attract secular women, too.

The collections are based on the game of local patterns. For instance, the last drop was dedicated to the image of a Didoan woman. Didoans are one of the indigenous highland peoples of Dagestan. For their new collection – ‘Original Look’ – the designers found inspiration in the poetry of Dōgen, a Japanese monk and philosopher from the 13th century. The drop comprises basic garments that easily complement each other and can fit into anyone’s stock of clothes – skirts, dresses, suits, and of course the unconventionally cut trenches, which have already become the brand’s style. To make this collection, the brand mainly used natural colors & fabrics.

Catwalk: https://disk.yandex.ru/d/M6bMqg79vIWejg

SANET / Keewa (Indonesia)

SANET SABINTANG, a designer from Indonesia, was inspired by the clothes worn by students from Muslim girls boarding schools – there were long mantles, sarong skirts, and oversize blazer jackets. According to the designer, today there are many Muslim boarding schools in Indonesia today, which help girls to build careers and take a more active part in politics. This is why their lifestyles change – and the fashion follows this change, too. At the same time, the existing ethical and cultural values remain in place.

The key highlight of the presented collection was layering. The textiles used were cotton, linen, viscose, as well as different fabrics treated with Shibori Japanese dying technique.

Footwear for the collection was brought by another Indonesian brand – Keewa. 

Catwalk: https://disk.yandex.ru/d/bOZ-ZGNx0Gt82w 

Abzaeva/Gapanovich (Ulan Ude, Russia / Murmansk, Russia)

Two Russian brands from Buryatia and the Murmansk Region brought to the catwalk of Modest Fashion Day some futuristic looks – extensive oversize puff quilted jackets complemented by balaclavas, as well as romantic rouches and skirts from streamy fabric.

Both brands work in compliance with the local identity of the region and traditional clothing, offering the audience a new creative take on these. 

Designer Nadezhda Abzaeva came to Modest Fashion Day with her quilted vests, puffy corsets, as well as texturized jackets with extensive sleeves. Abzaeva prefers natural materials – cotton and denim made in Russia and China.

Designer Alexandra Kruchuk from Murmansk (Gapanovich brand) presents in her collections a contemplation over the traditional Russian folk costume related to the history of the people of the North. She uses lots of rouches, handmade knitting, extensive sleeves, and skirts. This collection included looks made of stonewashed cotton and nettle cloth, as well as feminine blouses with floral prints, floating skirts, and sundresses of batiste and rough veil.

Catwalk: https://disk.yandex.ru/d/yXLV-bYS_6CALg

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India is experiencing a record-breaking influx of 24 global brands this year, propelled by the post-Covid surge in consumption. The number of brand entries in recent years pales in comparison, with only one in 2020, three in 2021, and 11 in 2022, far below the pre-pandemic average. 

Discussions are underway for prominent names like Roberto Cavalli, Dunhill, and Foot Locker to establish their presence in India. Additionally, Lavazza, Armani Caffe, Jamba, and The Coffee Club are set to make their Indian debut. Noteworthy brands including Valentino, McLaren, Balenciaga, Pottery Barn, Pret A Manger, Tim Hortons, and Popeyes have already ventured into the Indian market. 

CBRE forecasts retail leasing to reach 5.5-6 million square feet in 2023, the second-highest figure since the peak in 2019. Fashion stores are leveraging partnerships with Reliance and Aditya Birla for strategic expansion. Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail has joined forces with Galeries Lafayette, while Reliance plans to reintroduce Shein. 

India's rising spending power and its position as a prominent retail destination are attracting international brands. Experts predict a promising future for consumer technology and retail, with Ace Turtle recently teaming up with Dockers for their Indian market entry.