What the Physical Fair Offers Cannot Be Replaced by Digital Tools

• Coming to Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics. Do you see both exhibitors and visitors planning for the distant future too, because of the uncertainties of the times. Is it that earlier buyers planned 1–2 years ahead, and now they are doing it with 5–7 years in mind?
• Production has been affected in many places (be it for COVID restrictions or energy crisis) and supply chains. How have these, in turn, affected how the industry is sourcing apparel and fabrics? What is it that you have been noticing?

I am sure that textile industry buyers would prefer to plan further in advance, and it is beneficial to be well prepared. However, it is difficult to predict fashion trends over an extended period, and therefore harder for buyers to plan longer term. Social economic factors, for example, are difficult to forecast and it’s not uncommon to see sudden shifts in consumer behaviour and buying habits. This has been made clear to us from talking to buyers at our fairs. For them, it’s essential to have trade fairs that address the latest consumer preferences as well as the seasonal trends in fashion. In general, businesses have had to be more adaptable—one shift I have noticed stemming from the unpredictability of the market is that buyers have had to diversify who they source from, which signals opportunities for a wider range of suppliers at our trade fairs.

While ensuring they remain flexible, buyers have had to be more cautious and analytical, as supply chain disruptions can, of course, cause businesses concern. But by conducting research and diversifying their supply, buyers can go some way to mitigating production risks.

We can all acknowledge that these are uncertain times, stemming first of all from the pandemic, and now the war in Ukraine and rising inflation. These and other issues have all affected the supply chain, and the cost of many raw materials has increased as a result. This has led to brands shifting their supply chains from China to other countries in Southeast Asia, such as Vietnam, Bangladesh and Indonesia, where they can take advantage of lower costs and more flexible logistic arrangements. However, other producers cannot replace the technology and resources that China has at its disposal. As a country, it is still the largest exporter of textiles in the world, and numbers are improving. According to the national customs statistics, China’s exports of textiles, apparel and clothing accessories increased to about $189.4 billion in January–July 2022, with an overall year-on-year growth rate of 12.5%.

As you have mentioned, there are several global issues currently impacting sourcing in the textiles industry. One of those is climate change, which has led to sustainable materials gaining momentum. With consumers and regulators increasingly concerned about environmental issues, we have seen that businesses are more incentivised than ever to ensure they source recycled and organic products, which in turn leads to a greener supply chain.

In fact, the Chinese government has a number of initiatives and policies that address the global demand for a greener environment and technology innovation such as the dual carbon goals, the 14th five-year plan and the Greater Bay Area development plan. These polices encourage textile industry players in China to produce sustainable and innovative products that accommodate both domestic and international markets.

• What are the highlights of the forthcoming Intertextie Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics?

This coming November, visitors to Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics can expect to see a wide range of fabrics, accessories and technologies that provide a response to current market trends. They can also absorb business insights that are in tune with the local market. As mentioned earlier, the fair is held in Shenzhen, which provides great geographical advantage. Dalang Fashion Town, an ongoing development project subsidised by the government, is located in the city, and is aimed towards utilising the momentum of the Greater Bay Area to build an international fashion centre. The development project builds on Shenzhen’s strong foundations in fashion, with the city already a well-known ladieswear hub, and home to an abundance of fashion designers and fashion retailers.

With such a promising market on its doorstep, the fair attracts quality suppliers, bringing their finest products. Joining this year’s fair is the Fine Japan Zone, which will feature the latest ladieswear and casualwear collections, covering a range of high-quality cotton and man-made fabrics. Japanese exhibitors are well-known for their ability to offer small order quantities, product-in-stock services, and quick delivery. Another notable attraction will be the Taiwan Pavilion, organised by the Taiwan Textile Federation, set to feature an array of jacquard, lace and embroidery, and functional fabric suppliers.

The signature Trend Forum and other seminars at the 2022 fair will add value to exhibitors’ participation, by maximising their brand exposure to qualified buyers. This year the Trend Forum, presented by China's leading trend forecasters from the China Textile Information Centre (CTIC), has again been formed to help designers and buyers steer their designs in line with the coming fashion seasons. For Autumn / Winter 2023-24, the trend forecasters have identified Harmony as its core message, with four key themes: Soft Mentality Harmonious Recycle, Spiritual Regeneration and Supreme Sensuality. (View the Trend Guide here for details)

The Intertextile Apparel Shenzhen edition is also held concurrently with Yarn Expo, as well as CHIC and PH Value. These events will bring greater synergy and offer a wide variety of raw materials and finished products on display to fulfil buyers’ diverse sourcing needs.