Yorick Starke, auteur op IAF

ATTI Advances Manufacturer-Led Transformation in Bangladesh and Türkiye

Yorick Starke — Fri, 25 Sep 2026 12:41:37 +0000

The Apparel Textile Transformation Initiative (ATTI) continues to build momentum, with important progress underway in both Bangladesh and Türkiye and strengthened local leadership supporting the initiative’s country-level work.

Building the evidence base in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, ATTI is progressing its comprehensive Needs Assessment for the country’s ready-made garment sector. Through workshops, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and wider stakeholder engagement, the assessment is gathering evidence directly from manufacturers and other industry stakeholders to identify the most important barriers, needs and opportunities for transformation.

The findings will help shape ATTI’s priorities and future activities in Bangladesh, ensuring that interventions respond to the realities manufacturers face on the ground. The final Needs Assessment report is expected to be published in November 2026.

ATTI has also continued to engage in wider industry discussions around the transition to cleaner energy. Most recently, the initiative participated in an important roundtable discussion in Dhaka on Advancing Decarbonisation in a Changing Energy Landscape, convened by HSBC, the Apparel Impact Institute, Team Sweden, and the Delegation of the EU to Bangladesh, which brought together stakeholders to discuss opportunities and challenges related to clean energy for Bangladesh’s apparel sector.

ATTI Bangladesh is led by BGMEA and BKMEA, both longstanding IAF members.

Moving from strategy to implementation in Türkiye In Türkiye, the ATTI Türkiye Transformation Council continues its work on implementing the Energy and Water Transformation Strategies developed through the initiative.

The Transformation Council recently came together at IHKIB in Istanbul for its latest plenary meeting, bringing stakeholders together to review progress, strengthen collaboration and advance practical implementation of the strategies. The work of the Council reflects ATTI’s manufacturer-led approach: bringing industry actors and technical expertise together to turn shared transformation priorities into action.

ATTI Türkiye is led by IHKIB, also a longstanding IAF member.

Strengthening ATTI’s country leadership

As ATTI’s country chapters and activities continue to grow, the initiative has also strengthened its local leadership.

Gökçenur Uysal has taken on the role of ATTI Lead for Türkiye in her capacity as an independent specialist. With extensive experience in environmental engineering, ESG, carbon and water management and sustainability programmes across Turkish and European textile and apparel supply chains, Gökçenur brings strong technical expertise to ATTI’s work in the country.

In Bangladesh, Sajjadul Alam has assumed the role of ATTI Lead for Bangladesh, alongside his responsibilities at BGMEA. Sajjad brings deep knowledge of Bangladesh’s RMG sector and extensive experience in decarbonisation, renewable energy, energy efficiency and circularity.

Their on-the-ground knowledge and close connections with manufacturers and industry stakeholders will be instrumental as ATTI moves further into implementation.

Through its work in Bangladesh and Türkiye, ATTI continues to demonstrate the importance of manufacturer-led transformation: identifying priorities together with the industry, building the evidence base for action and creating practical pathways towards a more sustainable and resilient textile and apparel sector.

More member news

ATTI Advances Manufacturer-Led Transformation in Bangladesh and Türkiye

25 September 2026

The Apparel Textile Transformation Initiative (ATTI) continues…

Responsible purchasing starts with fair pricing

25 September 2026

New research and industry insights show that manufacturers are…

Brazilian companies explore new opportunities at Première Vision Paris 2026

25 September 2026

The Brazilian textile and fashion industry was present at…

Macao Fashion Festival 2026 is coming this October

25 September 2026

As one of the Advisory Unit of the Macao Fashion Festival…

Uzbekistan Emerges as a New Textile Sourcing Destination

31 August 2026

Uzbekistan is rapidly transforming from a cotton-producing…

CPTTM Showcases the Works of Macao’s Emerging Fashion Designers at China Graduate Fashion Week 2026

31 August 2026

The Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center (CPTTM)…

Manufacturing in the Age of Climate Breakdown

26 August 2026

Guest perspective from industry leaders By Vidhura Ralapanawe The…

Brazil strengthens international presence at Playtime Paris 2026

24 August 2026

Texbrasil (Brazilian Textile and Fashion Industry Internationalization…

Congratulations to Mário Jorge Machado on his re-election as president of Euratex

1 July 2026

Portuguese Textile and Apparel Association congratulates Mário…

Het bericht ATTI Advances Manufacturer-Led Transformation in Bangladesh and Türkiye verscheen eerst op IAF.

Responsible purchasing starts with fair pricing

Yorick Starke — Fri, 25 Sep 2026 12:26:13 +0000

New research and industry insights show that manufacturers are facing rising costs while prices for some products have barely kept pace with inflation. The result? Growing pressure on responsible production and long-term supplier relationships.

In this article, STTI explores why the industry needs to move beyond ethical sourcing and embrace ethical buying. It highlights how purchasing decisions such as pricing, payment terms and planning can strengthen partnerships, improve resilience and create value for both buyers and suppliers.

Read the full article and explore the latest findings in the report.

More member news

ATTI Advances Manufacturer-Led Transformation in Bangladesh and Türkiye

25 September 2026

The Apparel Textile Transformation Initiative (ATTI) continues…

Responsible purchasing starts with fair pricing

25 September 2026

New research and industry insights show that manufacturers are…

Brazilian companies explore new opportunities at Première Vision Paris 2026

25 September 2026

The Brazilian textile and fashion industry was present at…

Macao Fashion Festival 2026 is coming this October

25 September 2026

As one of the Advisory Unit of the Macao Fashion Festival…

Uzbekistan Emerges as a New Textile Sourcing Destination

31 August 2026

Uzbekistan is rapidly transforming from a cotton-producing…

CPTTM Showcases the Works of Macao’s Emerging Fashion Designers at China Graduate Fashion Week 2026

31 August 2026

The Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center (CPTTM)…

Manufacturing in the Age of Climate Breakdown

26 August 2026

Guest perspective from industry leaders By Vidhura Ralapanawe The…

Brazil strengthens international presence at Playtime Paris 2026

24 August 2026

Texbrasil (Brazilian Textile and Fashion Industry Internationalization…

Congratulations to Mário Jorge Machado on his re-election as president of Euratex

1 July 2026

Portuguese Textile and Apparel Association congratulates Mário…

Het bericht Responsible purchasing starts with fair pricing verscheen eerst op IAF.

Brazilian companies explore new opportunities at Première Vision Paris 2026

Yorick Starke — Fri, 25 Sep 2026 12:23:21 +0000

The Brazilian textile and fashion industry was present at Première Vision Paris 2026, held from September 1 to 3 at Paris Nord Villepinte in France. With support from Texbrasil (Brazilian Textile and Fashion Industry Internationalization Program) — a partnership between Abit (Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association) and ApexBrasil (Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency) —, ten brands participated in the event, presenting products, materials, and solutions to buyers and industry professionals.

The Brazilian delegation comprised Atelier Lucius Vilar, Balz Studio, Estúdio Icertain, Moltec, Natural Cotton Color, Nomad Studio, Nova Kaeru, Savyon, Stampa Studio, and Studio Noir.

Three-day event

During the three-day event, the brands had the opportunity to showcase their strengths, establish contact with potential buyers and partners, and keep abreast of the latest developments shaping the fashion value chain. Brazilian participation generated $740,900 in business, considering the negotiations conducted during the event and the opportunities projected for the next 12 months.

The 2026 edition highlighted the Innovation & Technology series and the AW 27-28 season, with content focused on innovation, technology, digitalization, circularity, smart materials, and optimization of production processes.

Strategic opportunity

“Participation in Première Vision Paris is a strategic opportunity for Brazilian companies to expand their presence in the international market, showcasing the diversity and quality of our industry. Being at one of the leading global events in the fashion value chain also provides an opportunity to strengthen business connections and closely follow the transformations shaping the future of the sector”, says Adriana D’Agostini, Texbrasil trade promotion manager.

Recognized as one of the industry’s leading events, Première Vision Paris brings together companies and professionals from different segments to present new materials, technologies, solutions, and trends for the development of upcoming collections.

Brazilian participation in the fair underscores the diversity and innovation capacity of the domestic industry, while creating space for new connections and business opportunities.

More member news

ATTI Advances Manufacturer-Led Transformation in Bangladesh and Türkiye

25 September 2026

The Apparel Textile Transformation Initiative (ATTI) continues…

Responsible purchasing starts with fair pricing

25 September 2026

New research and industry insights show that manufacturers are…

Brazilian companies explore new opportunities at Première Vision Paris 2026

25 September 2026

The Brazilian textile and fashion industry was present at…

Macao Fashion Festival 2026 is coming this October

25 September 2026

As one of the Advisory Unit of the Macao Fashion Festival…

Uzbekistan Emerges as a New Textile Sourcing Destination

31 August 2026

Uzbekistan is rapidly transforming from a cotton-producing…

CPTTM Showcases the Works of Macao’s Emerging Fashion Designers at China Graduate Fashion Week 2026

31 August 2026

The Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center (CPTTM)…

Manufacturing in the Age of Climate Breakdown

26 August 2026

Guest perspective from industry leaders By Vidhura Ralapanawe The…

Brazil strengthens international presence at Playtime Paris 2026

24 August 2026

Texbrasil (Brazilian Textile and Fashion Industry Internationalization…

Congratulations to Mário Jorge Machado on his re-election as president of Euratex

1 July 2026

Portuguese Textile and Apparel Association congratulates Mário…

Het bericht Brazilian companies explore new opportunities at Première Vision Paris 2026 verscheen eerst op IAF.

Macao Fashion Festival 2026 is coming this October

Yorick Starke — Fri, 25 Sep 2026 12:20:04 +0000

As one of the Advisory Unit of the Macao Fashion Festival 2026 (MFF 2026), IAF is pleased to learn that MFF 2026, a highly esteemed annual fashion event in Macao, will be held from 21 to 24 October at Hall C of the Venetian COTAI EXPO, concurrently with the 31st Macao International Trade & Investment Fair (MIF).

Business networking platform

Jointly organized by the Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center (CPTTM) and the Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM), MFF 2026 will serve as a business networking platform, offering visitors insights into the latest industry trends and cutting-edge designs, as well as the opportunity to explore fashion designs from Macao. This four-day event will feature runway shows and an exhibition showcasing the latest collections from designer brands.

Under the theme“Fashion Oath,”this year’s festival will bring together original creations by up-and-coming designers, highlighting the dynamic creativity and diversity of Macao’s fashion culture. By combining professional fashion shows, static displays, and interactive experiences, the event will generate business opportunities for brands while enabling attendees to appreciate the stories and craftsmanship behind the designs. In doing so, it will inject fresh creative energy into the local fashion industry.

For more details and online promotion, please visit the links below:

CPTTM website: https://www.cpttm.org.mo/macao-fashion-festival-2026/
CPTTM Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cpttm
CPTTM Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/macaofashionfestival/

More member news

ATTI Advances Manufacturer-Led Transformation in Bangladesh and Türkiye

25 September 2026

The Apparel Textile Transformation Initiative (ATTI) continues…

Responsible purchasing starts with fair pricing

25 September 2026

New research and industry insights show that manufacturers are…

Brazilian companies explore new opportunities at Première Vision Paris 2026

25 September 2026

The Brazilian textile and fashion industry was present at…

Macao Fashion Festival 2026 is coming this October

25 September 2026

As one of the Advisory Unit of the Macao Fashion Festival…

Uzbekistan Emerges as a New Textile Sourcing Destination

31 August 2026

Uzbekistan is rapidly transforming from a cotton-producing…

CPTTM Showcases the Works of Macao’s Emerging Fashion Designers at China Graduate Fashion Week 2026

31 August 2026

The Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center (CPTTM)…

Manufacturing in the Age of Climate Breakdown

26 August 2026

Guest perspective from industry leaders By Vidhura Ralapanawe The…

Brazil strengthens international presence at Playtime Paris 2026

24 August 2026

Texbrasil (Brazilian Textile and Fashion Industry Internationalization…

Congratulations to Mário Jorge Machado on his re-election as president of Euratex

1 July 2026

Portuguese Textile and Apparel Association congratulates Mário…

Het bericht Macao Fashion Festival 2026 is coming this October verscheen eerst op IAF.

Uzbekistan Emerges as a New Textile Sourcing Destination

Yorick Starke — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:23:17 +0000

Uzbekistan is rapidly transforming from a cotton-producing country into a vertically integrated textile and apparel manufacturing hub. Over the past decade, manufacturers have invested heavily in modern production equipment supplied by leading European companies. These technologies enable Uzbek manufacturers to meet the quality, productivity and consistency requirements of international brands and retailers. Today, international buyers can source yarn, knitted and woven fabrics, denim, garments and home textiles within one production ecosystem.

The shift is already visible. According to H&M Group’s publicly available supplier list, garments are manufactured in Uzbekistan through independent supplier factories, confirming the country’s growing role in international apparel supply chains. The country is already working with international brands such as LPP, LC Waikiki, Kiabi, DeFacto, Terranova, Gemo, Carrera Jeans, Engelbert Strauss and Auchan. Uzbek manufacturers offer OEM, ODM and private-label production, covering the full process from fabric development and dyeing to garment manufacturing, packaging and export.

What can buyers source in Uzbekistan?

Cotton yarn and blended yarns
Single jersey, interlock, rib, piqué, fleece and French terry
Woven fabrics for shirts, uniforms, workwear and casualwear
Denim fabrics and finished garments
T-shirts, knitwear, sportswear, children’s clothing and underwear
Bed linen, towels, bathro bes and hospitality textiles
Silk and traditional atlas and adras fabrics

Uzbekistan’s key advantage is its locally grown cotton combined with expanding spinning, weaving, knitting, dyeing and garment-production capacity. Manufacturers are also investing in modern equipment, sustainable technologies and internationally recognized quality and social-compliance standards.

International buyers can discover these opportunities at Heimtextil Uzbekistan, Texworld Tashkent and Apparel Sourcing Tashkent, taking place on 12-14 October 2026 at UzExpoCentre in Tashkent.

Register here

A rapidly developing market

At the same time, Uzbekistan – and Centra! Asia as a whole – is a rapidly developing market with significant business potential. We would like to warmly invite IAF members to consider participating in our trade fairs as exhibitors. We would be happy to provide further information on the opportunities and support available.

Organized by Business Media Centra! Asia under the licences of Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH, the exhibitions bring together the entire textile value chain – from yarns and fabrics to finished apparel, private-label manufacturing and home textiles. Visitors will be able to meet Uzbek and international suppliers, examine product samples, join pre-arranged 828 meetings and visit local factories.

For brands, retailers, importers and sourcing companies seeking new suppliers and more diversified supply chains, the exhibitions offer a practical opportunity to explore one of Eurasia’s fastest-growing textile markets.

Contact

Business Media Centra! Asia Phone: +998 55 515 05 22
E-mail: heimtextil@bmca.uz or texworld-apparel@bmca.uz

More member news

ATTI Advances Manufacturer-Led Transformation in Bangladesh and Türkiye

25 September 2026

The Apparel Textile Transformation Initiative (ATTI) continues…

Responsible purchasing starts with fair pricing

25 September 2026

New research and industry insights show that manufacturers are…

Brazilian companies explore new opportunities at Première Vision Paris 2026

25 September 2026

The Brazilian textile and fashion industry was present at…

Macao Fashion Festival 2026 is coming this October

25 September 2026

As one of the Advisory Unit of the Macao Fashion Festival…

Uzbekistan Emerges as a New Textile Sourcing Destination

31 August 2026

Uzbekistan is rapidly transforming from a cotton-producing…

CPTTM Showcases the Works of Macao’s Emerging Fashion Designers at China Graduate Fashion Week 2026

31 August 2026

The Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center (CPTTM)…

Manufacturing in the Age of Climate Breakdown

26 August 2026

Guest perspective from industry leaders By Vidhura Ralapanawe The…

Brazil strengthens international presence at Playtime Paris 2026

24 August 2026

Texbrasil (Brazilian Textile and Fashion Industry Internationalization…

Congratulations to Mário Jorge Machado on his re-election as president of Euratex

1 July 2026

Portuguese Textile and Apparel Association congratulates Mário…

Het bericht Uzbekistan Emerges as a New Textile Sourcing Destination verscheen eerst op IAF.

CPTTM Showcases the Works of Macao’s Emerging Fashion Designers at China Graduate Fashion Week 2026

Yorick Starke — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:23:05 +0000

The Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center (CPTTM) led a delegation of its fashion design students to participate in the 2026 China Graduate Fashion Week held in Beijing from May 15 to 20. CPTTM presented a runway show on May 19 to highlight the creativity and technical skills of Macao’s emerging talented designers.

‘Your Design is the Future’

Co-organized by the China Fashion Association, the China National Garment Association, and the China Textile and Apparel Education Society, this year’s event was themed “Your Design is the Future” and brought together over 50 educational institutions, featuring collections from more than 3,000 graduating students.

CPTTM presented 45 pieces from 24 students, selected from the center’s Diploma in Fashion Design and Manufacture, the Fashion Incubation Program (MaConsef), and the Production of Haute Couture Wedding Dress course. The collections reflected a rich diversity of styles, including neo-Chinese aesthetics, sustainable fashion, haute couture, and interdisciplinary design.

Creating new opportunities and fostering long-term growth

By taking part in this national fashion event, CPTTM aimed to introduce Macao’s original designs to industry professionals across China, while also strengthening ties with higher education institutions on the mainland. The participation marks an important step in creating new opportunities and fostering long-term growth for Macao’s fashion design sector.

For more information, please visit the links below:

CPTTM website: https://www.cpttm.org.mo
CPTTM Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cpttm
CPTTM Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Macaofashionfestival/

More member news

ATTI Advances Manufacturer-Led Transformation in Bangladesh and Türkiye

25 September 2026

The Apparel Textile Transformation Initiative (ATTI) continues…

Responsible purchasing starts with fair pricing

25 September 2026

New research and industry insights show that manufacturers are…

Brazilian companies explore new opportunities at Première Vision Paris 2026

25 September 2026

The Brazilian textile and fashion industry was present at…

Macao Fashion Festival 2026 is coming this October

25 September 2026

As one of the Advisory Unit of the Macao Fashion Festival…

Uzbekistan Emerges as a New Textile Sourcing Destination

31 August 2026

Uzbekistan is rapidly transforming from a cotton-producing…

CPTTM Showcases the Works of Macao’s Emerging Fashion Designers at China Graduate Fashion Week 2026

31 August 2026

The Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center (CPTTM)…

Manufacturing in the Age of Climate Breakdown

26 August 2026

Guest perspective from industry leaders By Vidhura Ralapanawe The…

Brazil strengthens international presence at Playtime Paris 2026

24 August 2026

Texbrasil (Brazilian Textile and Fashion Industry Internationalization…

Congratulations to Mário Jorge Machado on his re-election as president of Euratex

1 July 2026

Portuguese Textile and Apparel Association congratulates Mário…

Het bericht CPTTM Showcases the Works of Macao’s Emerging Fashion Designers at China Graduate Fashion Week 2026 verscheen eerst op IAF.

Manufacturing in the Age of Climate Breakdown

Yorick Starke — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 07:15:08 +0000

Guest perspective from industry leaders
By Vidhura Ralapanawe

The news on climate and weather continues to be grim, with extreme heat taking hold of multiple countries, creating droughts and wildfires. Ocean heat is driving more intense cyclones while high heat in air, which carries high moisture increases rainfall intensity. The news is grim, with things becoming worse each year.

Welcome to the age of climate breakdown.

Heat has been in focus for the last few years -especially on years with El Nino – such as 2023/24 and now in 2026/27. This is of special concern for fashion manufacturers. Our industry infrastructure – or even national infrastructure globally – were never designed for the kind of intense heat that human-caused climate change has brought upon us.

When the temperatures rise – the slow creep upwards – as well as periods of extreme heat, can lead to conditions outside human comfort (and even tolerance) levels easily. Most of our industry (or any other industry) haven’t retooled our factories to operate under these conditions. The rapid acceleration of planetary heat from about 2023 has caught us unawares.

The Heat Challenges

The heat waves will challenge us in three significant ways.

It will push facilities outside safe and comfortable working conditions for our workers. These conditions are defined by the likes of ILO and OHSA based on limits of human physiology. In many parts of the world this is already occurring, as seen in research publications and press. This will only increase – for example in spring of 2027 when the temperature records globally are expected to be broken.

Reporting on conditions in manufacturing facilities will create negative publicity and regulatory responses. We spent years getting rid of the ‘sweat shop’ image that tarnished the name of our industry, and now climate crisis will turn our factories back to literal sweat shops.

This will also create proliferation of standards, audits and customer asks, normally also passing the full burden of fixing the problem and risk (including financing) to the manufacturers. AAFA has issued guidelines, multiple brands are issuing new checklists, organisations like RSC/Accord are working on new standards… Under current extreme pressure on margins, there will not be much space for manufacturers to address this issue meaningfully.

Towards a Collective Approach

The only way forward is to tackle this problem collectively, by the industry coming together and working together. This is what we should have done for decarbonization too. And the irony is that the heat problem is really an outcome of the failure to rapidly decarbonize.

While it is tempting to respond to heat stress with administrative and management systems approach, with training, hydration and ventilation, for many parts of the world, active cooling is a necessity (even if not needed now, will be required in the next five years). This requires substantial Capex allocation and space in margins to absorb additional opex. This cannot be simply done through debt. There are gaps in technology and knowledge that needs plugging too.

The challenge is stark, and if we don’t win collectively, the industry will face unsurmountable challenges with our workers paying the heaviest price.

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the International Apparel Federation.

Het bericht Manufacturing in the Age of Climate Breakdown verscheen eerst op IAF.

Brazil strengthens international presence at Playtime Paris 2026

Yorick Starke — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 11:44:29 +0000

Texbrasil (Brazilian Textile and Fashion Industry Internationalization Program), a partnership between Abit (Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association) and ApexBrasil (Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency), supported the participation of seven Brazilian companies at Playtime Paris 2026. The international trade fair, focused on children’s fashion and lifestyle, was held between June 27 and 29 in Paris, France.

Trade opportunities

This was the Program’s first participation with an expanded delegation of Brazilian companies at Playtime Paris, bringing together the brands Camu-
Camu, Das Meninas, Mellow Me, Siri, Tip Toey Joey, Tnin Shoes and With Spots. The initiative gains even more relevance in light of the progress of negotiations for the Mercosur-European Union agreement, which tends to expand trade opportunities between the blocs and reinforces the importance of the Brazilian presence in strategic markets on the European continent.

Important markets and leading media

Over the three days of the event, companies presented their collections to buyers, distributors, and professionals from various countries, including representatives from important markets such as the Middle East. The fair also hosted leading media outlets in the sector, such as Milk Magazine, the main European publication specializing in children’s fashion, increasing the visibility of participating brands among opinion leaders and international buyers.

130 business contacts

Brazilian participation resulted in USD 482 million in business and 130 business contacts, reinforcing the fair’s potential for generating international opportunities for participating companies.
“Playtime Paris brings together qualified buyers and professionals from different markets, making it an important showcase for Brazilian children’s fashion. Participation in the Program strengthens the companies’ positioning in a highly specialized environment and expands the possibilities for generating business in strategic markets”, says Gabriella Sampaulo, Commercial Promotion Coordinator of the Texbrasil Program.

More member news

ATTI Advances Manufacturer-Led Transformation in Bangladesh and Türkiye

25 September 2026

The Apparel Textile Transformation Initiative (ATTI) continues…

Responsible purchasing starts with fair pricing

25 September 2026

New research and industry insights show that manufacturers are…

Brazilian companies explore new opportunities at Première Vision Paris 2026

25 September 2026

The Brazilian textile and fashion industry was present at…

Macao Fashion Festival 2026 is coming this October

25 September 2026

As one of the Advisory Unit of the Macao Fashion Festival…

Uzbekistan Emerges as a New Textile Sourcing Destination

31 August 2026

Uzbekistan is rapidly transforming from a cotton-producing…

CPTTM Showcases the Works of Macao’s Emerging Fashion Designers at China Graduate Fashion Week 2026

31 August 2026

The Macau Productivity and Technology Transfer Center (CPTTM)…

Manufacturing in the Age of Climate Breakdown

26 August 2026

Guest perspective from industry leaders By Vidhura Ralapanawe The…

Brazil strengthens international presence at Playtime Paris 2026

24 August 2026

Texbrasil (Brazilian Textile and Fashion Industry Internationalization…

Congratulations to Mário Jorge Machado on his re-election as president of Euratex

1 July 2026

Portuguese Textile and Apparel Association congratulates Mário…

Het bericht Brazil strengthens international presence at Playtime Paris 2026 verscheen eerst op IAF.

Overproductie doet kledingsector de das om: “We produceren tien stuks en verkopen er drie”

Yorick Starke — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:53:46 +0000

Giselle Nath – De Standaard – 19 juni 2026

“Zo kan het niet verder.” Voor het eerst noemt de internationale federatie van textielproducenten overproductie van goedkope kledij het grootste probleem van de kledingindustrie. “We verbranden ons kapitaal.”

Weinig economische sectoren werken volgens het principe: tien stuks maken, slechts drie rendabel verkopen. Nog minder sectoren verkopen systematisch met zware kortingen of dumpen hun afgewerkte producten ongebruikt op de vuilnishoop. Toch is die ‘chronische efficiëntie’ al decennialang de realiteit in de modesector, stelt de International Apparel Federation (IAF), de internationale federatie van textielproducenten.In een nieuw en zeldzaam manifest roept de IAF haar leden op om de overproductie tegen 2030 gezamenlijk en grondig aan te pakken. “Stapsgewijze aanpassingen volstaan niet meer”, waarschuwt de organisatie. Het is de eerste keer dat een invloedrijke stem binnen de sector van fast fashion openlijk bevestigt wat critici al jaren zeggen: de markt wordt overspoeld door te veel en te goedkope kleren.

Risico’s afwentelen op zwakste schakel

Dat systeem kan alleen blijven bestaan omdat de macht in de logge productieketens voor kledij extreem ongelijk verdeeld is. De grote merken – meestal westerse bedrijven – gokken elk seizoen wat consumenten willen en plaatsen vervolgens bestellingen bij fabrikanten in het Globale Zuiden. Die draaien op voor het grootste deel van de risico’s en kosten. Veel keuze hebben ze niet. Als een kleinschalige fabriek in Cambodja weigert mee te gaan in de prijzenslag, staat er elders – in Ethiopië of Mexico – wel een concurrent klaar om dat wel te doen. Omdat merken weten dat een aanzienlijk deel van hun collectie nooit volledig zal verkopen zoals gehoopt, eisen ze dat die fabrikanten zo goedkoop mogelijk leveren. Fabrikanten mogen al tevreden zijn met een winstmarge van 8 procent, terwijl merken, afhankelijk van hun positie in de markt, 15 tot zelfs 300 procent winst kunnen binnenrijven. Die voortdurende prijsdruk veroorzaakt de bekende misstanden in de sector: arbeiders, zelfs in Europa, doen extreem veel overuren en grondstoffen moeten zo goedkoop mogelijk en precies op tijd beschikbaar zijn. Tijdens crisissen – zoals de coronapandemie – roepen de merken bovendien overmacht in om hun onderaannemers niet te betalen. Die onderaannemers staan vooral binnen de IAF sterk en waarschuwen nu dat het systeem zijn grenzen bereikt.

Vooral financieel wordt de druk onhoudbaar. “We verbranden geld en zitten vast in een verlieslatende bedrijfscyclus”, stelt de IAF. Door de klimaatopwarming en de handelsperikelen schommelen de prijzen van grondstoffen als katoen of polyester ook veel meer dan vroeger. Daarbovenop komen steeds strengere duurzaamheidsregels. Dat vraagt investeringen van fabrikanten, die op dit punt gewoon niet meer haalbaar zijn. “De huidige manier van werken staat los van de realiteit van kledingproductie”, aldus IAF in een sneer naar de grote merken.

Shein achterna

Volgens de kledingproducenten ligt de oplossing in een nieuw type contracten en een slimmere, AI-gedreven productie. De IAF pleit ervoor dat merken opnieuw langdurige samenwerkingen aangaan met fabrikanten en bestellingen over meerdere seizoenen vastleggen. Met zo’n garantie op inkomsten kunnen producenten gemakkelijker investeren, bijvoorbeeld in zonnepanelen of andere verduurzamingsprojecten. Merken en textielfabrikanten zouden ook op een slimmere manier in real time gegevens kunnen uitwisselen over ontwerp, productie en verkoop. “B2B en B2C kunnen niet langer twee aparte systemen zijn. Er is nood aan één geïntegreerd beslissingscentrum”, stelt de federatie.Het doel: niet langer tien stuks produceren om er drie te verkopen, maar “zeven items maken en er zeven verkopen”. Eerst op kleine schaal produceren dus, en pas als dat goed loopt, opschalen. Wat slecht scoort, gaat er dan ook sneller uit. Bij zulke gefaseerde en flexibele productieorders gebeurt het verven of drukken van prints pas in een later stadium.

Opvallend is dat het van oorsprong Chinese – en vaak verguisde – Shein deze succesformule als eerste toepaste. Via AI-gestuurde voorspellingen en nauwe, snelle contacten met leveranciers is dat bedrijf bijzonder flexibel én kapitaalsefficiënt. Die aanpak geldt vandaag steeds vaker als voorbeeld voor de rest van de sector.De belangengroep wil haar leden nu systematisch helpen om zulke samenwerkingsmodellen in te voeren. Dat kan de druk op kledingmerken de komende jaren verder opvoeren.

Het bericht Overproductie doet kledingsector de das om: “We produceren tien stuks en verkopen er drie” verscheen eerst op IAF.

Brussels Textiles Forum 2026: competitiveness, circularity and the future of Europe’s textile industry

Yorick Starke — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:10:33 +0000

On 11 June, EURATEX hosted the Brussels Textiles Forum 2026, bringing together 150 participants from the European textile and apparel ecosystem, EU institutions, industry, social partners and consumer organisations. Sponsored by Indorama Ventures, the event provided a timely platform to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the sector.

The Forum took place at a defining moment for Europe’s textile and clothing industry. High energy prices, global competition, regulatory pressure, e-commerce imports, sustainability requirements and geopolitical uncertainty are all reshaping the conditions under which European companies operate. Throughout the day, speakers and participants reflected on how Europe can support a textile industry that remains competitive, innovative and resilient while leading the transition towards sustainability and circularity.

Competitiveness problem

Opening the Forum, EURATEX President Mário Jorge Machado underlined that Europe does not have a textile problem, but a competitiveness problem. His message set the tone for the day: European textile companies are ready to invest, innovate and decarbonise, but they need fair rules, affordable energy, effective enforcement and industrial conditions that allow production to remain in Europe.

The morning sessions focused on the competitiveness of the European Union and the future of the textile and clothing industry. Speakers highlighted the importance of reducing red tape, strengthening the Single Market, scaling innovation, improving access to investment and ensuring that European rules apply equally to all products placed on the EU market. The debate also confirmed the strategic role of textiles beyond fashion, including in healthcare, construction, transport, agriculture and defence. A stakeholder panel brought together perspectives from industry, the European Parliament, trade unions and consumer organisations. Discussions addressed the need to make circularity economically viable, support investment, use public procurement strategically, retain skills and industrial expertise, and strengthen consumer trust. The panel confirmed that the future of textiles requires cooperation across the full value chain and a stronger alignment between competitiveness, sustainability and social responsibility.

Sessione on the policy files

In the afternoon, participants joined dedicated sessions on the policy files that will shape the sector in the coming years. Discussions covered eco-design and the Digital Product Passport, customs reform and e-commerce imports, energy and decarbonisation, trade diversification, textile waste and the Circular Economy Act, and the future European Product Act. Across the sessions, one message was clear: sustainability, competitiveness and enforcement must go hand in hand. The Forum also highlighted the need for a stronger and more coherent European approach. Circularity will only scale if secondary materials become economically viable, customs and market surveillance systems are strengthened, energy remains affordable, and companies receive the right conditions to invest in Europe. Participants also stressed the importance of avoiding fragmented rules across Member States and ensuring that the Single Market remains a driver of competitiveness.

30th anniversary celebration

The day concluded with EURATEX’ 30th anniversary celebration, offering a moment to look back at three decades of cooperation, advocacy and representation for the European textile and apparel industry. Speeches from honorary presidents recalled the origins of EURATEX and its role in building a united voice for the sector in Brussels. The anniversary also carried a strong message of unity in adversity. Over the past 30 years, the industry has faced repeated crises, from globalisation and supply chain disruptions to energy shocks, unfair competition and an increasingly complex regulatory environment. Yet the celebration showed that the strength of the European textile community lies in its capacity to adapt, cooperate and speak with one voice.

The Brussels Textiles Forum 2026 showed that the European textile and apparel industry is actively engaging in the transition, proposing solutions and building alliances. The message from Brussels was clear: Europe needs a competitive, innovative and resilient textile industry, and the right conditions must be created for it to stay, invest and grow in Europe.

Het bericht Brussels Textiles Forum 2026: competitiveness, circularity and the future of Europe’s textile industry verscheen eerst op IAF.