The recently concluded Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics provided a vibrant platform for the exchange of trends, innovation, and sustainability practices amongst key players in the Asian textile industry. From June 5-7, 2024, the Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center (Futian) buzzed with activity as nearly 1,000 exhibitors from 11 countries and regions showcased a vast array of garment-related products.
The event attracted close to 20,000 visitors from 45 countries and regions, as per the final report, including dedicated buyer delegations from Malaysia and the European American Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The strong turnout underscored the fair's reputation as a premier sourcing destination for brands, manufacturers, and regional designers.
A hub for business and knowledge sharing
Intertextile Shenzhen offered a comprehensive experience for attendees. The Trend Forum provided valuable insights into upcoming fashion trends for Spring/Summer 2025-26 and Autumn/Winter 2025-26, while fringe events and dedicated display areas like the Sustainability Zone fostered knowledge sharing and exploration of eco-friendly practices.
“The fair has been very effective for international and domestic suppliers to showcase their innovations,” remarked Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. “We are pleased to have delivered a business-friendly platform for players across the value chain and provided a stage for experts to share insights.”
Focus on sustainability and technology
Sustainability emerged as a key theme, with dedicated display areas like Eco Trends by Intertextile x Sateri and Functional Sustainability by Intertextile x Idole showcasing innovative approaches. Speakers like Kang Zhang, Technical Manager of Nano and Advanced Materials Institute Limited, emphasized the growing demand for functional and sustainable materials. Raymond Chiu, Senior Research Manager at The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel, discussed the potential of AI technology in textile recycling.
Knowledge sharing and global reach
Intertextile Shenzhen's seminar venues, Talking Point and Textile Dialogue, offered valuable insights on topics like AI's impact on textiles and upcoming fashion trends. The show floor buzzed with activity as international brands like Club Monaco, Diesel, lululemon, Ralph Lauren, Quiksilver, and ZARA interacted with attendees.
Three international buyer delegations, including representatives from the European American Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Malaysia Knitting Manufacturers Association, and Malaysian Garment Marketers Association, participated in business matching meetings with exhibitors. Over 250 such meetings took place, connecting exhibitors with individual brands and delegates.
Insights from exhibitors and visitors
Exhibitors expressed satisfaction with the quality of visitors and the potential for future collaborations. Wilson Chiu, Managing Director of Yee Fung Hong Ltd (PRO ECUADOR co-exhibitor), highlighted the positive response to their sustainable and unique palm tree seed buttons. Similarly, Jay Hwang, General Manager of SK Tex Co Ltd (Korea Pavilion), appreciated the increased traffic and focus within the dedicated pavilion format.
Visitors also found the experience enriching. Kuan Chee Tan, President of the Malaysia Knitting Manufacturers Association, commended the visa-free entry policy for facilitating efficient sourcing. Dileep Kumar, Director of ExPlus Logistics (member of the European-American Chamber of Commerce & Industry), lauded the diverse offerings and focus on eco-friendly trends.
A successful collaboration
Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics, held concurrently with Yarn Expo Shenzhen and PH Value, is a testament to the successful collaboration between Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, Messe Frankfurt (Shenzhen) Co Ltd, the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT, and the China Textile Information Center. The event served as a valuable platform for the textile industry to connect, innovate, and navigate the path towards a more sustainable future.
