INTERNATIONAL
NATIONAL
In a bid to showcase in the national and international markets, the Tamil Nadu government has decided to introduce new designs to infuse contemporary and trendy models in the State’s handloom varieties. New design for traditional textile products includes sarees, bedspreads, ‘jamakkalams’, and home furnishings. A senior official from the state textile department told DT Next in order to meet the objective of bringing innovation in production and design for producing marketable products, the department has entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) at Chennai and Bengaluru to develop 400 new designs. “Through NIFT, 100 new designs would be developed for silk sarees, 100 for cotton and kora sarees”, he said adding “similarly, 40 new designs each for bedspreads and bedsheets, about 20 new designs for ‘jamakkalams’”. Pointing out that in addition, about 100 new designs will also be developed exclusively for home furnishings, the official said “the new initiative will create ample opportunities for the weavers in the rural areas next only to Agriculture”. He said further, apart from the training from NIFT, strategic design intervention training has also been imparted to 44 master designers from Weavers Co-operative Societies, Co-optex, and block-level clusters through the officials of the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad here recently. “The training was given on creating a diversified range of designs and colour combinations so as to add elegance to the cotton and silk varieties produced by the handloom weavers in the State,” he said adding each participant was assigned to develop at least ten new ones so that they could develop a minimum 440 new designs. Stating that the average annual production of various handloom products through handloom weavers is around Rs 500 crore, the official said that the creation of new designs will increase the production by more than Rs 700 crore. “All the new designs will be approved by the panel in the textile department”, he said adding “The designs will also get the copyright”.
Source: The dtnext.in
India’s export to the UAE is likely to increase to $50 billion in 2026-27, from $31.3 billion in 2022-23, going by the utilisation of the bilateral Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in the first year itself, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal has said. “The India-UAE CEPA has surpassed almost all other FTAs in terms of utilisation (with the exception of IndiaASEAN FTA) and certain sectors have done very well…In the five years of trade after CEPA, I feel that we should be able to reach $50 billion in exports. I am very sure that going by the kind of response that we are hearing, we will definitely reach that,” Barthwal said addressing a media briefing on the completion of one year of the India-UAE CEPA on Monday. Benefits of CEPA The benefits of the India-UAE CEPA, implemented on May 1 2022, have already started showing with India’s exports to the UAE in 2022-23 rising by 11.8 per cent to $31.3 billion, compared to a 5.3 per cent overall increase in goods exports, the Secretary explained. The sectors that benefitted the most include mineral fuel and oil, electrical machinery, gems & jewellery, automobiles, essential oils, perfumer & cosmetics, machinery & mechanical appliances and cereals, per details shared by the Commerce Department. Exports of gems and jewellery from India to the UAE rose by 17 per cent to $5.8 billion in the last fiscal, electrical machinery shipments increased by 32 per cent to $3.65 billion, while automobiles exports rose by 42 per cent to $715.58 million. However, there was a dip in exports of iron and steel and apparel. Both sides aim to double bilateral trade in goods to $100 billion and enhance trade in services to over $15 billion within five years of implementation. Under the CEPA, tariffs on 97 per cent of India’s export lines to the UAE are to be reduced to zero with tariff elimination on 90 per cent items taking place immediately.
Imports jump While imports from the UAE grew by 18.8 per cent to $53.2 billion in the last fiscal, almost 90 per cent of the rise could be attributed to the increase in imports of oil. Import of petroleum and related products from the UAE increased 36 per cent to $27.6 billion in 2022-23. Increase in import of non-petroleum items from the UAE was a lower 4.1 per cent at $25.5 billion. Utilisation of the CEPA in India was amongst the highest compared to other FTAs signed by the country that are currently in force. As many as 54,142 COO (Certificate of Origin) were issued under the India-UAE CEPA in the May 2022-March 2023 period, which was second only to the COOs issued under the India-ASEAN FTA. COOs are issued by the government certifying that an item of export originated from the country (and had not been imported from a third country) and are used to claim duty concessions in the importing country. Utilisation of the India-UAE CEPA was more than all other FTAs including ones with Korea, Japan and Australia.
Source: The Hindu business line
The Indian government doesn’t want to ban flash sales, but is against predatory pricing and violation of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) norms by e-commerce platforms, both of which the government will address with the upcoming e-commerce policy, Consumers Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal hinted at the Enabling Bharat 2.0 event held on April 25.
“That was a mistaken understanding. Why should I complain if somebody wants to give a discount? The word flash sales, and I acknowledge it was a mistake of my department, was never intended to be against discount sales or against any of these Diwali dhamakas or any of that. Consumers are getting a good deal, we have no problem.” — Consumers Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal
Goyal’s comments appear to be in relation to the proposed amendments to the e-commerce rules that were announced first in September 2021 and called for a prohibition of flash sales, which were defined as sales “organized by an e-commerce entity at significantly reduced prices, high discounts or any other such promotions or attractive offers for a predetermined period of time on selective goods and services or otherwise with an intent to draw a large number of consumers.”
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Why does this matter: As pointed out by many at the time, the proposed ban on flash sales was too ambiguous, unreasonable, and not in the interest of consumers. The clarification by the Consumer Affairs Minister should offer some relief to platforms, consumers, and sellers, as platforms and sellers can continue to use flash sales like Amazon’s Great Indian Festival and Flipkart’s Big Billion Days to attract customers to shop online, and consumers can benefit from steep discounts.
What the government is against: Goyal explained that the government is going after:
Predatory pricing: “One is what China did to Indian manufacturing where you do predatory pricing. Keep dumping goods for a long period of time at very low prices, kill domestic manufacturing in India so that ultimately consumers will have no choice and they can charge an arm and a leg afterward,” Goyal remarked. “They [foreign e-commerce platforms] have deep pockets. Trillions of dollars of value. For them investing 1 billion, 2 billion, and 5 billion in India and making huge losses is not a problem. […] It’s just the accretion of consumers at any price, at any cost. Today the consumer may get excited, but in the law, as a policymaker, I have to look at the long-term good for Indian consumers and in that predatory pricing or such methods of innovatively cheating the public of choice is what we are against,” Goyal elaborated. Marketplaces violating FDI norms and selling to customers directly: As per India’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy, foreign e-commerce marketplaces are prohibited from selling directly to customers. They can only sell to other businesses or act as intermediaries connecting third-party sellers, which is what Amazon and Flipkart claim to be doing. But Goyal alleged that some foreign platforms are luring customers with flash sales and making a sale directly rather than enabling third-party sellers to do it. Effectively, the sale happens through a preferred seller in the marketplace. “That is cheating. And we are only trying to stop that cheating through the e-commerce policy we are coming out with,” Goyal stated. “The FDI laws have to be respected and a marketplace has to operate as a marketplace. Other products [that they want to sell by themselves], they can sell as their own single brand platform, we have no problem. That is perfectly possible and permitted. But you can’t mix the marketplace model with your single brand retail model,” Goyal added.
Source: The Medianama.com
CM Attend ‘Textile Leadership Conclave 2023’: The Textile Leadership Conclave organised by the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce (GCCI). On this occasion CM also launched an E-Directory providing details of textile industries and allied industries across the state on a single platform. Chief Minister expressed to keep the entire textile industry of Gujarat as a leader in contribution to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s determination to make India a global textile hub. In this regard, CM said that 30% of the total cotton production of the country is produced in Gujarat. Not only this, Gujarat contributes more than 25% percent in technical textiles. He lauded this approach where the list and contacts of around eight thousand such industries are available on a single platform. During his address CM said, “Under the direction of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Gujarat has become the state of first choice of investment for investors from home and abroad with the success of Vibrant Summit along with its reputation as a Policy Driven State”. He also added that as a result of such encouraging policies and business friendly environment, Gujarat contributes more than 8% to the country’s GDP and more than 18% to the industrial output. The Chief Minister also said on this occasion that the state government will be with the textile industries for the favourable environment and advanced facilities of the PM Mitra Textile Park. Expressing his confidence that this Textile Leadership Conclave will be a catalyst for the immortality of the textile industry, the CM gave a motivational call to the business-industry-society-government to work together in building a Self-Reliant Gujarat for a Self-Reliant India. On this occasion Additional Chief Secretary of Industries Department Shri S.J. Haider, GCCI Chairman Shri Pathik Patwari, Vice Chairman Shri Yogesh Parikh, Assocham, representatives of Textile Task Force, Chairman of Maskti Mahajan Market Shri Chintan Thacker and 78 representatives of 40 associations from states including Jammu and Kashmir and Tamil Nadu had joined.
Source: CMO Gujarat
India and the UAE enjoy strong cultural and economic relations. The two countries are also each other’s key trade partners with robust trade and investment in various sectors. The Cepa has added a new momentum to this relationship. This agreement is beginning to deliver on the shared vision of the leaders which was to see our bilateral economic and commercial exchanges growing exponentially in the years to come. In that sense, the near-record breaking export figures to the UAE come as no surprise. It is heartening to note that these trade gains have been broad based. Many sectors, including labour-intensive ones such as gems & jewellery, engineering products, automobiles, food products, and chemical products have already experienced significant gains from this landmark agreement. On the employment front, the Cepa is anticipated to create more than 1 million jobs in India in the near future. The Cepa is a historic agreement of strategic significance to both the partners. While creating a conducive trade ecosystem for businesses in both the nations, this agreement is helping the already strong bilateral relationship to be transformed into a new age, future-ready partnership connecting the visions of the leadership of our two friendly countries. The true complementary nature of this strong economic partnership is now being realised by the two countries. Our bilateral merchandise trade has recorded around $84 billion in FY 2022-23, registering an increase of 16 per cent year on year. The overall growth in bilateral trade reflects early gains accruing from the agreement. We had set ourselves a five-year bilateral trade in goods target of moving from $60 billion (pre-Cepa trade figure) to $100 billion. With a phenomenal performance in the first year itself, I believe we could look at revising these targets upwards. Trade gains in the initial post-implementation phase of the Cepa are just the beginning; there are still a large number of opportunities for cooperation among two nations in key sectors such as infrastructure and technology. Post-Cepa, both sides are expected to continue push for expanding the boundaries of collaboration. Covid has taught the whole of humanity a number of lessons; one amongst them is that we cannot deal with the complex and evolving challenges of the New Age in isolation. We need to work together and collaborate more closely than ever. I am glad that with great partners like the UAE, we are already moving ahead on these lines to forge multiple partnerships covering the entire gamut of our bilateral relations, be it in the domain of food and energy security, climate, trade and investments. Covid has also front-loaded the debate on reconfiguration of supply chains; in this context, India, with its favourable business environment, liberal FDI norms, constantly improving ease of doing business, rapidly improving physical and digital infrastructure, and the visionary and decisive leadership of Prime Minister Modi, has been largely acknowledged to play a key role in the reconfigured supply chains and emerge as a global manufacturing hub and a reliable partner. India and the UAE have a shared vision to forge a partnership that is future ready with special focus on cooperation in newer & emerging areas like sustainability, climate action, innovation, digitalization, startups, food and energy security, health, fin-tech and skilling. Exploration of initiatives like establishment of efficient and integrated Single Window Solutions and Virtual Trade Corridors to reduce the cost and time involved in trade and investment related procedures is a part of this initiative. Creation of a virtual trade corridor is expected to facilitate quicker clearance of shipments as the approvals and clearances related to customs will be given online on both sides. There are no definite timelines set but we intend to execute these on a priority basis. The Cepa has acted as a catalyst to the bilateral trade between India and the UAE since being formalised in May 2022. Many NRI businessmen have welcomed this pathbreaking deal, emphasising that the deal would take the economic and commercial engagements to the next level. This trade agreement will enable NRI businesses to improve their competitive positioning and offering to the wider Middle East and African markets as they would have access to duty free imports from India under this agreement. Further, the Cepa has opened many other new avenues of collaborations between the businesses of the two nations. Promoting cooperation between the trade ecosystems of the two countries is a major focus of the agreement. The India-UAE startup bridge is a pivotal initiative taken in this direction. The bridge will act as a one-stop platform where information regarding the Indian and UAE startup ecosystem will be easily accessible to entrepreneurs and stakeholders from both countries. It will further consolidate the close relationship that the two countries have had over the past few years. Over the past few years, there has been a substantial rise in the number of regional trade agreements among the WTO members. India-UAE Cepa is amongst the fastest negotiated bilateral comprehensive free trade agreements. It was concluded in a record span of 88 days. Trade agreements address the growing aspirations of like-minded trade partners and are done under the relevant enabling provisions of the WTO. In a sense, these RTAs complement the work done at a multilateral level in facilitating enhanced flow of goods and services between countries. What are the developments in agritech and other food-related investments between the two sides? Domestically, through its Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY) scheme which ensures distribution of free-of-cost wheat and rice to over 800 million people, India has been running the world’s largest food support programme – a testament to our commitment to food security. As a leading global producer of agriculture products, India is also committed to play the role of a trusted partner in bilateral, regional and global value chains related to food sector. There have been many encouraging developments as far as bilateral cooperation in this crucial sector is concerned. The UAE’s privatesector has investments to the tune of $2.5 billion in renewable energy, logistics, retail, and food processing projects in India’s most populous state, Uttar Pradesh. Amongst the several other significant partnerships launched since May 2022 are the sustainable food parks across India that will utilise advanced technologies to reduce waste and conserve water. Discussions between the two sides are also ongoing on the Food Security Corridor Initiative with intended investments of $2 billion from the UAE, which is expected to not only ensure food security in the UAE but also take forward India’s presence on the global food value chain.
Source: The zawya.com
The Fabrics,Accessories & Beyond Show 2023 (FAB Show 2023) organised by the Clothing ManufacturersAssociation of India (CMAI) lastweek concluded on an optimistic note with business of about Rs. 2000 crores generated during the three days of these B2B events. The CMAI Vendor Sourcing Fair 2023 (VSF 2023) was also organised alongside the CMAI FAB Show 2023. This year the CMAI FAB Show 2023 witnessed over 12,000 visitors including more than 1500 top platinum buyers and brands includingAmazon,Ajio,Anita Dongre, Bewakoof, D'Mart, Firstcry, Jack & Jones, Killer, Lifestyle, Max, Myntra, Mufti, Raymond, Nykaa, Pantaloons, Pepe Jeans, Pothys, Shoppers Stop, Siyaram's, SochApparel, Spykar, V Mart, Westside, Zudio, among many others. Speaking about the industry outlook, Rajesh Masand, President, Clothing ManufacturersAssociation of India (CMAI), said, "The overall garmentretail segment in India is estimated to be Rs. 8 lakh crore. Over the years the garment segment, which grew 18% in the last year, has seen a significant consumer shift towards branded apparel with online buying picking up pace. The garments industry is hopeful of the upcoming festive and wedding season and is expecting healthy growth for apparel especially occasion wear this year." "Post-pandemic, the overall growth of the industry has been minimal in line with the GDP growth rate of the country. Furthermore, the industry has been impacted with almost 50% rise in cotton yarn over two years, which saw garment manufacturers and retailers increasing prices by 15-20% leading to slowing down of demand in the unorganized sector, especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities and towns," added Mr. Masand. Speaking about the apparel segment expectations, Venu Nair, Managing Director & CEO, Shoppers Stop Ltd., said, "We are expecting a strong growth in the apparel segment, on the back of our key strategic pillar of Private Brands, National Brands and Store Expansions. We are expecting the market to be very positive with a considerable increase in demand this wedding and festive season. Festive season also comes with holidays. Travel and vacation, are further strong reasons for customers to invest in their ensemble." Sharing insights on the denim segment, Manish Kapoor, CEO, Pepe Jeans, said, "Summer will be very promotional with growth driven by price and little volume growth. Volume growth expected to come in from mid Q2. the premium denim segment is expected to grow at 12-13% as premiumization still continues as a major trend. Consumer preference for sustainable and on trend products is also seeing a positive trend. We are expecting a 15-18% growth during the festive." The CMAI FAB Show 2023 also attracted largest domestic and international buyers including Bangladesh, China, Ethiopia, Hong Kong, Nepal, New Zealand, UAE, and UK.Among the top exhibitors wereArvind mills, Grasim mills, Jindal mills, Bhagwan Textiles Mumbai, Disha Mumbai, Artex Bangalore, Gokul Tex Surat,Apple industries Surat, SashwatAhmedabad and Bhavna processorsAhmedabad. The world's largest associations namely Bangladesh Garments Manufacturers & Exporters Association (BGMEA) and Bangladesh Knit Manufacturers & ExportersAssociation (BKMEA) also participated in the CMAI FAB Show 2023.About CMAI The Clothing ManufacturersAssociation of India (CMAI) is the mostrepresentative association of the Indian apparel industry having over 4000 members and serving more than 20,000 Retailers. Its Membership consists of Manufacturers, Exporters, Brands, and ancillary industry. CMAI advocates regarding policies and also guides and encourages its members on ESG related matters and initiatives. In 2019, CMAI launched the SU.RE initiative to encourage members to embrace sustainability. Established six decades ago, CMAI has contributed immensely towards development of the industry. In 1978, CMAI had led the creation of theApparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC). CMAI is also authorised by the Government of India to issue Certificate of Origin (Non-Preferential) to Exporters. CMAI is the only IndianAssociation thatrepresents the entire IndianApparel Industry & Trade on prestigious international forums such as InternationalApparel Federation (IAF) headquartered in Netherlands.
Source: The devdiscourse.com
Bilateral commerce between South Korea and India increased by 17 per cent to US $ 27.8 billion in 2022. India’s exports of clothing to South Korea also rose by 51 per cent. However, in 2022, India’s exports of fabric and yarn fell year-over-year. While yarn imports from South Korea remained negative over the past year, India’s fabric imports have seen an upward trend. It’s interesting to note that India exports more fabric and yarn than clothing. The amount of clothing sent to South Korea increased significantly between 2021 and 2022, rising from US $ 39.002 million to US $ 59.451 million. However, there has been a noticeable decline in the past year in the shipment of fabric and yarn from India to South Korea. India’s exports of textiles to South Korea fell from US $ 153.951 million in 2021 to US $ 131.948 million in 2022. Limited amounts of fabric are imported by India from South Korea, with 2022 imports rising to US $ 37.135 million from US $ 34.266 million in 2021. India exported yarn of US $ 133.765 million in 2022, a decrease from the US $ 184.032 million shipment in 2021. After COVID, yarn imports from South Korea rose, from US $ 36.793 million in 2020 to US $ 74.622 million in 2021, before falling to US $ 65.652 million in 2022.
Source: Apparel Resources
With India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) agreeing to resume talks on a trade deal, the four members of the grouping are committed to solving outstanding issues for the speedy conclusion of negotiations, Swiss state secretary for economic affairs Helene Budliger Artieda has said. Artieda, who visited India last week with counterparts from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway for talks with commerce minister Piyush Goyal, said in an interview that there are a number of issues that need to be solved, especially with regard to market access for services, intellectual property rights, and rules of origin, in order to conclude the proposed trade and economic partnership agreement.
Why is there renewed interest among the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) states in negotiating a trade and economic partnership agreement with India? We have been negotiating for a long time and the interest has always been there! India is an important trading partner for Switzerland, and we are committed to solving the outstanding issues and to bring these negotiations to a successful conclusion as soon as possible. Switzerland and the other EFTA states are in turn, interesting markets for India and represent an untapped potential for smart investments. The four EFTA member states are global innovation, technology and quality leaders, create meaningful jobs in India, and are willing to bank on India’s impressive path towards more participation in global value chains. There is a lot of potential to further develop trade and economic relations as well as new investment opportunities.
Source: Hindustan times
With India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) agreeing to resume talks on a trade deal, the four members of the grouping are committed to solving outstanding issues for the speedy conclusion of negotiations, Swiss state secretary for economic affairs Helene Budliger Artieda has said. Artieda, who visited India last week with counterparts from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway for talks with commerce minister Piyush Goyal, said in an interview that there are a number of issues that need to be solved, especially with regard to market access for services, intellectual property rights, and rules of origin, in order to conclude the proposed trade and economic partnership agreement.
Why is there renewed interest among the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) states in negotiating a trade and economic partnership agreement with India? We have been negotiating for a long time and the interest has always been there! India is an important trading partner for Switzerland, and we are committed to solving the outstanding issues and to bring these negotiations to a successful conclusion as soon as possible. Switzerland and the other EFTA states are in turn, interesting markets for India and represent an untapped potential for smart investments. The four EFTA member states are global innovation, technology and quality leaders, create meaningful jobs in India, and are willing to bank on India’s impressive path towards more participation in global value chains. There is a lot of potential to further develop trade and economic relations as well as new investment opportunities.
Source: Hindustan times
Handloom and Textiles Minister R Gandhi has said that the state government is taking steps to improve the livelihood and revenue of weavers. Co-op society handloom weavers are complaining of low wages and exodus of artisans. What is your plan to support them? Wages for handloom weavers were not increased by the previous government for years. But, we have increased that by 10% in the last two years. I agree that these wages are also not sufficient. But, there are financial constraints. The government is working to provide assured wages and production-based incentives to weavers. That is in an early stage of discussion. What has the department done to revive Co-optex? Our government recovered Co-optex from mounting losses and made it profitable. It has jumped from a loss of `7.61 crore in 2019-20 to a profit of `9.4 crore in 2021-22. They have turned profitable and its turnover has increased to `30 crore in 2022-23 compared to the previous financial year. We have set a target turnover of `400 crore in the next two years. Knitwear manufacturers and spinning mills are urging the government to stabilise cotton prices... We have waived the 1% cess on cotton and made the union government reduce import duty on cotton through repeated requests. This has significantly brought their prices down. Cotton Corporation of India has set up godowns in Tamil Nadu which help the mills get raw materials cheaper and on time. This has stabilised cotton prices to some extent when they peaked last year. We are also exploring the feasibility to establish a joint venture with private players to establish a CCI-like body. On the textile city project proposed by you ... Textile city near Chennai will act as a B2B and B2C marketing hub to tap a higher value chain and integrated textile marketing network. It will be established through public-private partnership. It will also help the development of all segments of the textile value chain and chance for the players to cost-effective production.
Source: New Indian Express
The International Apparel & Textile Fair (IATF) is returned to Dubai in 2023, for its 15th edition. The fair is known as the premier platform for sourcing apparels, fashion fabrics, prints, clothing accessories, home textiles, footwear, and more in the UAE. This year’s event will showcase the Spring Summer Collections & Autumn Winter Highlights of 2023-2024. With over 200+ exhibitors from 22+ countries, IATF aims to expand with each e becoming a major influence in UAE’s Fashion scene.The India Pavilion Jointly organised by Apparel Export promotion council Ministry of Textiles, Government of India and Federation of Indian Export Organisation boasts 67 stalls combined, which showcase variety of Indian textiles for exports. Around twenty three companies have come on their own too for showcasing their apparels. The Indian Pavilion was Inaugurated by Consul General of India Dr Aman Puri. Chairman AEPC Ashok G Rajani also was present on the occasion.The event attracts a wide range of Textile Mills, Garments Manufacturers, Accessories/ Trim Suppliers, Print Designers, and major Footwear manufacturers. IATF provides manufacturers and their agents an opportunity to showcase their products to the most influential buyers and designers on the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) Fashion sphere.As a primarily “trade only” event, and a B2B platform, IATF provides a professional and conducive atmosphere for business and networking. The event has been designed for a quality exhibition for the fashion business in the UAE, in response to the need for a dedicated trade exhibition in Dubai. With its 15th edition, the IATF aims to continue to be a major influence in the fashion industry and provide a platform for industry professionals to connect and showcase their products.
Source: New Sonair.com
INTERNATIONAL
Europe wants to take concrete steps to combat overproduction and overconsumption of clothing and shoes. The stricter regulations are part of the Green Deal.
Less waste, more reuse “Selling high volumes of lower quality garments at low price levels”. This is how the European Commission defines “fast fashion”, a phenomenon it wants to ban from the European Union. It’s a daunting decision for many of the big fashion brands, such as Zara and H&M, which have built their empires on fast fashion. In fact, the fashion market is now dominated by fast-fashion players. Nevertheless, Europe wants to propose stricter regulations before the summer. Products will have to be made of as much recycled fibre as possible and be free of hazardous substances. They must be more durable, easier to reuse and recycle. Human rights, social rights, labour rights, the environment and animal welfare must be respected throughout the production chain.
Ban on destruction In addition, the EU wants to ensure that unused or returned textiles are no longer destroyed and that microplastics and microfibres end up in nature as little as possible. The Commission also wants to stop greenwashing by better informing consumers and regulating “green claims” more. MEP Delara Burkhardt says it is time to act because “if we allow the market to self-regulate, we leave the doors open for a fast fashion model that exploits people and the planet’s resources. The EU must legally oblige manufacturers and large fashion companies to operate more sustainably.” In March last year, the Commission proposed a European Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles, transposing the European Green Deal to the textile sector.
Source: The retail detail
Textile provider Ocean State Innovations (OSI) announces the acquisition of Cloud9 Fabrics of Cranford, N.J. Cloud9 Fabrics predominately offers organic fabrics to the quilting trade. Cloud9 has been in business for more than 14 years and also offers a selection of apparel fabrics for home sewing. It uses only 100-percent certified organic cotton in the manufacturing of their cotton base cloths and eco-responsible low impact dyes for printing and dying. President and CEO of P&B Textiles Ed Odessa stated: “The synergy between Cloud9 Fabrics and P&B Textiles will result in OSI becoming a much more important resource for the home sewer.” Cloud9 Fabrics, in conjunction with P&B Textiles, will allow OSI to offer different cotton substrates to the home sewing industry. Cloud9 has a sister brand, Felicity Fabrics, which is aimed specifically at more traditional quilters who are looking for the Cloud9 designer flair with a focus on smaller prints and strong supporting basics that work across all of the collections. ”We are thrilled that Cloud9 and Felicity Fabrics are now part of our team. With their outstanding design sense and knowledge of the industry, there is no doubt that this newly created collaboration will be a resounding success,” said David Odessa, executive vice president and CEO of P&B Textiles.
Source: Textile world
Cambodia’s textile and apparel (T&A) industry, a key export sector for the country, needs to develop advanced skillsets, both in technical and soft-skill domains, to remain competitive, according to the government’s Industrial Transformation Map for Textile and Apparel Industry 2023-2027. “Since the 1990s, this sector has been continuously transformed into a growth pillar based on political stability and peace, competitive wage and production cost, preferential trade access and favourable investment environment, all of which have been the industry’s competitive advantage. Overall, this industry has played a key role in Cambodia’s export and supported people’s livelihood of at least 2.5 to 3 million people who have benefitted from this industry,” Minister of Economy and Finance Aun Pornmoniroth said in the report. Among the several recommendations for developing advanced skillsets for the industry, the roadmap suggested lean manufacturing and the absorption and adoption of the 5S methodology. “The implementation of lean manufacturing and 5S methodology in production not only contributes to the increase in productivity but also contributes to the efficient and sustainable use of resources. Thus, the government will support the TAFTAC and CGTI to attract experts in lean manufacturing and 5S methodology in production from foreign countries to build the capacity of local experts and talents to promote the absorption and implementation of this new production method across “Thus, the private sector in T&A industry, in collaboration with the government, needs to build higher advanced technical skills and critical core skills and develop degree apprenticeship programs necessary for high value-added production and more recruitment of local employees to middle-and senior-level management positions,” it said. The adoption of the cleaner production system is critical to remain competitive in the global market and this needs to be adopted at the firm level as well as industry level with the support of the government, the study pointed out. The industry needs to adopt IR4.0 technologies and invest in R&D. Some actionable measures suggested include the adoption of resource-efficient cleaner production, sustainability initiatives at the firm level, incentivizing R&D and technology adoption, implementation of machinery leasing mechanisms, and selective and gradual adoption of Industry 4.0. The report indicated that the government will launch laws, guidelines and minimum compliance levels on social and environmental aspects, in line with other competing countries and the minimum standards set by global brands, after consultation with relevant stakeholders. The government will also collaborate with international development agencies and industry experts for capacity development measures of institutions and individuals for environmental and social compliance. The government, development partners, trade bodies, and training institutions will prepare and implement initiatives for resource-efficient cleaner production, in particular, reducing the usage of water, chemicals, and energy and improving resource efficiency by reducing, reusing and recycling. Regarding sustainability initiatives, the report stated that the government would encourage T&A manufacturers to implement several initiatives and best practices.
Source: The Khmertimeskh
The US is giving Kenya $55 million for expansion of export processing zones in a move that will boost Nairobi’s apparel exports. US initiative Prosper Africa and the US Embassy announced the funding at the launch of the US-Kenya Business Roadshow held on April 25 in New York. The announcement was part of the commitments made by President Joe Biden at the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit last year. The funds will be channelled under USAid and Prosper Africa – a US government initiative to increase trade and investment between African nations and America – and will mostly target women-led organisations as well as the export processing zones (EPZs), where a majority of employees are young women.“It is a pleasure to partner with the Prosper Africa initiative to drive investment in Kenya and countries across the African continent,” said US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman. New co-investmentsThe funding involves six new co-investments with American and Kenyan apparel companies, which will connect American buyers with Kenyan manufacturers, creating jobs. In 2022, the US became Kenya’s largest export market, edging ahead of Uganda. Kenya exported about $890 million in goods to the US against imports of around $600 million. Ambassador Whitman said US-Kenya trade is expected to increase by a $1.5 billion as the two countries negotiate the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership. Model agreement“This agreement will be a model for the rest of the continent once signed,” said Whitman.“Many US tech companies have already figured this out and decided that they need to be in Kenya.”The companies include Copia Global, Semiconductor Technologies Ltd, Twiga Foods, Market Force, Power Financial Wellness, and electric vehicle start-ups.“I’ve met these companies, visited their operations, and what I see happening here has many of the critical components that make Silicon Savannah a reality,” she added. Kenya’s Cabinet secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry Moses Kuria pledged to reduce taxes, electricity costs and other trade barriers to investment.“We are providing an environment that is conducive to investment, starting with the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP),” said Kuria. Beneficiary firmsScott Cameron, acting chief operating officer at Prosper Africa, said the six new coinvestment partnerships include UAL and MAS Intimates, which is already at the Athi River EPZ, and which will create jobs in the formal sector and provide training for Kenyan workers to increase production of high-quality Kenyan-made apparel.“UAL will increase apparel exports to the US market by building a one-stop shop in Kenya that harmonises all steps in the production process from farm to fashion,” said Cameron. The funds will also be channelled to Mega to expand the company’s production capacity. The other beneficiary is Coast Apparel, which will buy machinery to increase production and export capacity, creating new jobs for women and youth. Funding to Best Lifestyle will help to hire and train new employees as it expands its manufacturing in Kenya. Build factory in KenyaNexGen is expected to set up a factory in Kenya to manufacture tags and labels for branding products in apparel and footwear for sale within and outside Africa. These new co-investments build on the 14 deals announced by President William Ruto at the American Chamber of Commerce Summit in Nairobi in March. Kenya has been a beneficiary of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), a preferential trade programme that will expire in 2025. It also qualifies for textile and apparel benefits. The trade volumes between Kenya and the US have been skewed in favour of the US but Minister Kuria has pledged to address the inequality through proposals to lower the cost of doing business in Kenya.“To ensure that we attract more investment and more buyers into the market, we’ve identified several areas, which we are working on. One of them is the availability of industrial spaces for investors. We are looking at Eldoret and Busia, which are on the border of Kenya and Uganda,” he said. Cost of energyThe minister added that the government is addressing the cost of energy as well as reviewing the tax regime and gaps in the legal framework on doing business. Kenya exports to the US are chiefly apparel, macadamia nuts, coffee, tea and titanium ores while it imports mainly aircraft, plastics, machinery and wheat. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Alfred Mutua discussed strengthening bilateral relations across all five pillars of the Strategic Partnership and advancing peace and prosperity.“Kenya is open for business,” said Mutua. “We are saying we want more trade, not aid. Kenya is well placed on the African continent to be a hub for American investors.”Free trade area“We now have the African Continental Free Trade Area, with a population of 1.3 billion people. When you come and invest in Kenya, it means you’re investing on the continent of Africa.”Blinken noted that the US is supporting Kenyan-led vaccine production, including through Moderna’s $500 million investment in a new manufacturing facility near Nairobi, which will produce mRNA vaccines to tackle viruses such as Covid-19, Ebola, respiratory syncytial virus and HIV.“We’re committed to supporting US investment in Kenya, particularly in key sectors like information and communications technologies, agriculture, and renewable energy, which will help Kenya achieve its goal of reaching upper-middle income status by 2030, while creating jobs and opportunity for people in both our countries,” Blinken said.
Source: Zawya.com
Piana Technology, the 440-year-old Italian-made textile company known for innovations within the fiber and nonwovens textiles markets, is certified to the Global Recycling Standard (GRS) for its Piana Nonwovens business unit. The Georgia and Arizona based textile facilities specialize in vertically and cross-lapped nonwovens. Since 2015 and 2019, in each location respectively, the company has manufactured a variety of intermediate products that are behind many of the common household products used today. The GRS is a product standard that verifies and tracks recycled raw materials through the supply chain. It includes criteria to prevent the use of potentially hazardous chemicals, and verifies positive social or environmental production at facilities – this includes requirements for worker’s rights and safety, as well as an environmental management system to set and track environmental goals. Both Piana Nonwovens facilities were assessed by a third party to verify their conformance to the standard, and were awarded a scope certificate in March. All eligible nonwoven products from Piana Nonwovens will be made with at least 50% recycled GRS material. It’s a step forward for Piana Technology’s mission to offer traceable technologies that have a smaller environmental footprint, on top of their organization-wide purpose of becoming a powerhouse of sustainable innovation. “We are proud to demonstrate our commitment to traceability, social, and environmental standards through this certification,” said Daniela Leal, Sustainability manager at Piana Technology. “It is always our priority to work for the benefit and wellbeing of people and the planet.”
Source: Textile world
The Swiss company Benninger has been the textile industry’s partner across the globe for more than 160 years developing and manufacturing textile finishing and tire cord production ranges as well as complete system solutions. Benninger offers overall solutions for all important textile wet finishing processes with a special focus on the continuous open-width treatment of woven and knitted fabrics as well as technical textiles and on jet dyeing machines and jiggers. Benninger is proud to announce the cooperation with a new agent for Thailand as per May 1, 2023. Union Thailand Engineering (1977) Co., Ltd. is an experienced and longstanding partner of the Thai textile industry with a local office and established team which will support our customers with commitment and expertise. The company will represent Benninger’s entire product portfolio of Textile Finishing for continuous open-width and discontinuous processes as well as Tire Cord products. Benninger and Union Thailand Engineering (1977) Co., Ltd are convinced that this partnership will be of utmost benefit to their customers. This change follows Benninger’s strategy to work more directly in the important textile markets and provide best-in-class service.
Source: Textile world
The 133 China Import and Export Fair ("Canton Fair", "the Fair") proved to be a treat for home decor enthusiasts, as over 1400 textile companies displayed quilt & bed sheets, blankets, curtain, bathroom and table textiles, mattress and cushion designs, brought in new patterns and comfortable designs, and set a benchmark for global home living.
Shanghai Star Industry and Trade Co., Ltd. ("Star") wowed attendees at the Fair with their impressive display of over 300 products in 4 categories, including printed quilts, plain quilts, fleece quilts, and special fabric quilts. With over a decade of experience in the production and export of home textiles such as quilts, bedspreads, quilt covers, and sofa covers, Star has become a leading contender in the global market. "The skin-friendly, fashion-forward, and affordable product from Star has resonated with global consumers," said Winni Yu, General Manager of the company. "We're using more skin-friendly materials in our products, because we know quilts and blankets create a relaxing and peaceful moment for each family to rest, refresh and seek comfort."
Orient Hometex Co., Ltd. ("Orient Hometex") has unveiled a stunning collection of customized home textiles that are sure to catch the eye of the most discerning customers. The collection features a variety of products, including down, cotton-filled quilt cores, pillow cores, bed covers, and quilt covers and blankets made of cotton and chemical fiber textiles. "Following the trend of consumers paying increasing attention to health, sterilization, and improvement of the quality of home textiles, we insist on design innovation while also improving comprehensive product functions," said Mr. Cheng, General Manager of Orient Hometex. Orient Hometex has developed nano-silver pillows, antibacterial fabrics, multifunctional down blankets, smart heating scarves, etc, and obtained the DOWNPASS highquality down certificate, OHSAS 18001:2007 Occupational Health and Safety Management System Certification, and many other authoritative certifications."
Feng Cheng City River Garments Co., Ltd. ("River") has made a significant breakthrough in innovative development and material application with their latest tussah silk home wear. The company has utilized China's unique natural tussah silk as raw material to create a product that boasts an exceptional combination of style, comfort, and durability.
Source: The prnewswire
