The Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics Spring Edition, a leading global trade fair for apparel textiles and accessories, concluded its three-day run on March 8th with a resounding success. The spring edition served as a testament to the industry's resilience and its bright future, particularly with the China market showing signs of growth and a shift in consumer preferences. The event witnessed a significant increase in both exhibitors and visitors compared to the previous edition, highlighting the industry's strong recovery and renewed optimism.

Surge in international participation and visitation

Following the government's visa relaxation measures, the fair saw a remarkable 22.9% increase in international exhibitors. International visitor numbers skyrocketed by 99%, with a particularly high 87% returning on days two and three, signifying a serious intent to source. "The exceptional return rate of overseas buyers... speaks to the multitude of sourcing options at our comprehensive platform", commented Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, emphatically. 

China Market Insights: Shifting market preferences

Alessandro Barberis Canonico, CEO of Vitale Barberis Canonico, observes , “The major changes in the China market over the years have included a shift from buying high-quality, high-priced products to more price- conscious options, a transition from formal wear to leisure and outdoor products, and a slowdown in the market due to economic challenges such as high unemployment rates and real estate issues. Additionally, there has been a shift towards functional leisure products, with a small percentage of formal production transitioning to this new trend.   Adds  Bob HMS, “A global trend towards casual and performance fabrics. This shift is evident in China as well, with a growing demand for these fabrics alongside a continued interest in higher-end options.” 

Domestic demand remains strong

The domestic market also displayed robust demand, with a high number of Chinese buyers seeking textiles with luxury, sustainable, and functional elements. "It seems we are back to the fairs of 2016 – 2018, where it was really profitable. It’s a good sign for the Chinese luxury market", observed Andrea Rossi, Sales Manager of Lanificio Luigi Colombo S.p.A (Italy Pavilion) 

Exhibitors laud renewed business potential

Kurabo Textiles, Japan, is entering the China market for the first time. “Kurabo produces mainly woven fabrics, including specialty fabrics in cotton made with compact yarn. The company is new in China, was not selling into China market so far, as they were selling to the USA and the Europe market. Kurabo is focused on promoting ecology and sustainability in their products. Kurabo is strong in finishing of their products, particularly about their facility in Japan. We aim to leverage our expertise in Japanese finishing techniques to gain a foothold,” says Takashi Mitani, General Manager, Kurabo.

Exhibitors across the textile spectrum expressed their satisfaction with the renewed ease of doing business and the strength of the domestic market. Chen Yu Jyun of Shibaya (Japan Pavilion) highlighted the effectiveness of the WeChat sample ordering system, leading to a surge in customer details. Jeanie Hu, Marketing Director for HeiQ (China) Material Tech Co Ltd, emphasized the importance of such comprehensive platforms to reach diverse target sectors.

Buyers find inspiration and sourcing solutions

Buyers like Cao Yunfeng, Senior Fabric Purchasing Manager of JNBY Finery Co Ltd, lauded the fair's vast offerings, allowing them to source fabrics for various categories. Hong Sajun, Purchasing Manager of YoungHW Textile Trading Co Ltd, found several potential suppliers in the Trend Forum, particularly for eco-friendly fabrics. Rebecca Sales of Jonathan Simkai Inc., USA, appreciated the opportunity to discover new fabrics and collaborate with a global audience.

Fringe programme enhances knowledge sharing

The fringe program, encompassing seminars, forums, and product presentations, provided valuable insights on design trends, market information, sustainability, and technological advancements. Clara Tse of HKRITA, Hong Kong, emphasized the collaborative nature of the discussions surrounding sustainability. Mr. Kai Chow of DONEGER | TOBE, USA, commended the Trend Forum's realistic approach to showcasing commercially viable fabrics.

Co-located synergies

The co-location of the fair with other textile-related events like Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles and Yarn Expo Spring offered a one-stop platform for exploring the entire textile value chain, fostering further networking opportunities.