The Seventh World Textile Merchandising Conference 2024 recently brought together representatives from over 60 countries in Keqiao, Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province. Themed ‘Future Fashion Advanced by New Quality Productive Forces,’ the event spotlighted technological innovation and global cooperation in the textile industry.
Sun Ruizhe, President of the China National Textile and Apparel Council (CNTAC), emphasized China's role in enhancing global textile development through advanced machinery and affordable products. In 2023, China's textile machinery exports spanned 202 countries, showcasing its contribution to industrial growth worldwide.
Shaoxing’s innovation-led approach was highlighted by Shi Huifang, Secretary of Shaoxing Municipal Party Committee, who detailed achievements like the Zhejiang Modern Textile Technology Innovation Centre and smart industry platforms. Chen Hao, Secretary of the Keqiao District Party Committee, outlined plans to create a world-leading textile cluster, integrating the entire supply chain from polyester spinning to creative design and trade services.
Christopher Pissarides, Nobel Laureate in Economics, praised globalization's role in optimizing production and supply chains, citing improved logistics as a driver of global trade and integration.
Key trends identified in the 2025 Global Textile Outlook include green development, innovation, and advanced materials. Strategic initiatives announced include a Zhejiang workstation for patent examination, collaborations with CNMI, and the WGSN Keqiao Trend Centre project.
The conference underscored the textile industry’s evolution, combining innovation, sustainability, and cooperation to secure a competitive future.
