Hong Kong: The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) has recently signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with two mainland partners: China Textile Academy (CTA) and ANTA Sports Products Group Co Ltd (ANTA). By combining our strengths and expertise from both Hong Kong and mainland research and industry experts, we can leverage unique insights and resources, leading to groundbreaking solutions and enhanced competitive advantages.
CTA, a comprehensive national research institute and high-tech industrial base in the mainland textile industry, will join hands with HKRITA to accelerate technology transfer and commercialisation by scaling up laboratory technologies into pilot tests and intermediate trials. ANTA, a leading sports brand in China, emphasises innovation as the foundation of the company. The solutions developed under the MOU will be tailored to athletes' needs, enhancing the competitive edge in the sportswear market and promoting the company’s sustainable development.
Jake Koh, the Chief Executive Officer of HKRITA, conveyed his excitement about closer collaboration with mainland counterparts, saying, “R&D requires a multitude of brilliant ideas to succeed. These two memoranda engage a large pool of innovative exchanges between Hong Kong and the mainland to develop solutions that improve our industry and society. Our concerted efforts can quickly address current needs and challenges of the industry, staying ahead of the competition.”
Ma Yongmei, General Manager of China Textile Academy, stated, “CTA has established a comprehensive innovation chain that spans from materials and fibre preparation to core equipment, fibre application research, and standards testing and measurement certification. The collaboration between CTA and HKRITA will not only bring fresh impetus to technological innovation but also further promote technology transfer, fostering the integration of R&D and industrialisation.”
Li Su, Vice President of ANTA GROUP, said, “We look forward to working closely with the HKRITA to create an innovation platform and ecosystem, aiming to enhance the value chain of sportswear industry.” The collaborations will focus on key areas such as new fibre materials, advanced functional products, smart manufacturing and devices and sustainable regenerated textiles. These joint efforts will enhance the innovations in performance textile and speed up scaling and application.
About The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA): Established in 2006, HKRITA is funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR Government and is hosted by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. HKRITA contributes to the competitiveness of the textile and apparel industry by providing one-stop services in applied research, technology transfer and commercialisation. HKRITA also plays a vital and expanding role in driving sustainable improvements in the industry and thus bringing benefits to society as a whole.
