Recently, major German retailer KiK met Kyrgyz apparel companies to discuss opportunities with European buyers. The meeting was part of the Apparel Innovation Club supported by the United States through USAID’s Business Growth Initiative to strengthen the Kyrgyz textile industry, according to the US Embassy in Bishkek.

In the meeting, KiK International Sourcing Director Stefanie Artmann presented the firm’s global sourcing strategy and opportunities for Kyrgyz producers to supply apparel to this €2.2 billion retailer, which has more than 3,300 stores in nine European countries. Kyrgyz producers learned about buyer requirements for KIK’s global suppliers, with a particular emphasis on corporate social responsibility.

According to Artmann, Kyrgyzstan is well-positioned to benefit from apparel making. The European Union’s recent award of duty-free status for Kyrgyz apparel imports (GSP+) will also boost the market. The meeting was part of USAID’s ongoing efforts to connect Kyrgyz textile manufacturers with international markets. These efforts have already generated $1 million in orders for Kyrgyz apparel producers.