Ten Technological Trends in Textile and Apparel Manufacturing — ShanghaiTex 2025 In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, the textile and apparel manufacturing industry is experiencing profound transformation. From traditional handcrafting to modern intelligent production, technology is not only boosting production efficiency but also guiding the industry towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. Here are ten key technological trends shaping the future of textile and apparel manufacturing, impacting not only the operations of manufacturers but also changing consumer expectations in fashion. 1. Sustainable Manufacturing and Green Practices With increasing environmental awareness, the textile industry is adopting green technologies to reduce its environmental footprint. Many companies have begun using low-water or waterless dyeing technologies. For example, the Swedish company Coloreel has introduced equipment that can dye threads directly during embroidery, significantly reducing water and chemical usage. Statistics show that traditional dyeing processes require an average of 70 to 150 liters of water to dye 1 kilogram of fabric, while green dyeing technologies can reduce water consumption by up to 80%. 2. End-to-End Digital Transformation Digital technology is redefining every aspect of the textile industry’s workflow, from design and production to distribution. Through cloud management tools, Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems, and data analytics, manufacturers can better control production schedules. For instance, the global fashion brand Zara uses a digital supply chain that shortens production cycles, allowing designs to hit store shelves within just two weeks, thus enhancing customer satisfaction. 3. Integration of Digital Twins, AR/VR, and IoT Digital twin technology allows factories to monitor production equipment and simulate production processes in real-time, enhancing operational efficiency. Combined with Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), consumers can now customize virtual clothing online and try it on before purchasing. H&M uses AR technology to allow customers to try on clothes virtually at home via their smartphones, making personalized services more accessible. 4. Circular Economy and Waste Reduction With increasing environmental pressures, the concept of a circular economy is rapidly expanding in the textile industry. Nike’s "Move to Zero" initiative aims to achieve zero-waste production by using recycled materials and waste reclamation. The brand reported that by 2020, 75% of its product lines were made from eco-friendly materials, significantly reducing waste. 5. Supply Chain Transparency and Traceability Consumers are increasingly interested in the origins and production processes of their clothing. Blockchain technology shows great potential in this field. Italian luxury brand Gucci uses blockchain to provide customers with detailed information on every step of the production process, from raw material sourcing to the finished product, ensuring supply chain transparency and traceability, which greatly enhances brand credibility. 6. Nearshore Production and Localization Due to global supply chain disruptions, many companies are moving production back home or to neighboring countries to reduce shipping time and costs. Studies show that U.S. textile imports decreased by nearly 30% in 2022, while the trend of localized production has prompted more companies to establish domestic factories, shortening delivery times and reducing carbon emissions. 7. Application of AI in Design and Production AI technology is revolutionizing textile design and production planning. Through machine learning, AI can analyze vast amounts of data, helping designers predict fashion trends and even generate design proposals. AI also plays a critical role in production planning, helping factories optimize production lines, reduce material waste, and manage inventory. Adidas, for instance, has leveraged AI to significantly enhance its customized production capabilities, completing the design-to-shipment process in just a few hours. 8. Bio-based Materials and Sustainable Fibers To reduce reliance on fossil fuels, more textiles are now made from bio-based materials and sustainable fibers, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and bamboo fiber. Industry reports indicate that the global bio-based fiber market is expected to grow to $12.8 billion by 2030, becoming a mainstream choice in eco-friendly fashion. 9. 3D Printing Technology 3D printing offers unprecedented flexibility in apparel manufacturing, allowing designers to create intricate designs and produce customized garments on demand. Renowned designer Iris Van Herpen has used 3D printing to create futuristic haute couture, which not only saves fabric but also reduces the time and labor costs associated with traditional handcrafting. 10. Smart Textiles Smart textiles are one of the most promising directions in future fashion, embedding electronic components into fabrics to provide health monitoring, temperature regulation, and other functionalities. Lululemon’s smart yoga pants, for example, use built-in sensors to monitor the wearer’s muscle fatigue, enhancing the workout experience. The global smart textile market is expected to reach $6.7 billion by 2026. Driving the Future of Textile and Apparel Manufacturing These technological trends are not only transforming the textile and apparel manufacturing industry but also meeting consumers’ expectations for eco-friendly, personalized, and high-tech fashion. ShanghaiTex 2025 serves as a platform for gathering global leaders and innovators in the textile industry to showcase the latest technologies and solutions. Since its founding in 1984, ShanghaiTex has been at the forefront of textile technology innovation, offering an excellent opportunity for industry exchange and collaboration.

Expanding Textile Applications and Enhancing Supply Chain Collaboration — T-EXplorer Textile Innovation Hub Driven by technology and innovation, the textile industry is undergoing unprecedented transformation, unveiling infinite possibilities for the future. As a global benchmark in the textile industry, ShanghaiTex 2025 will once again be the focal point, exploring the integration of textile technology and future innovations. A key highlight of the exhibition, "T-EXplorer Textile Innovation Hub," will gather global innovators, showcasing the latest breakthroughs in the textile industry and driving the sector towards a smarter, greener, and more sustainable future. Highlights of "T-EXplorer Textile Innovation Hub" "T-EXplorer Textile Innovation Hub" is not only a platform for cutting-edge technology displays but also a stage for inspiring innovative thinking and promoting cross-industry collaboration. This event will cover diverse topics and rich content, presenting the future development trends of the textile industry, including: Sustainable Call · Smart Green Movement Series: Focuses on advancing sustainable development in the textile industry through technological innovations and extensive use of eco-friendly technologies. 2nd Green Sustainability Forum: Discusses environmental trends, carbon neutrality goals, and best practices in the industry, sharing cutting-edge technologies and solutions. 4th Artificial Intelligence on Fashion & Textile International Conference (AIFT 2025): Explores the application of AI in fashion and textiles to enhance productivity, optimize design, and drive digital transformation. 4th International Health Textile Technology Conference: Focuses on how textile technology can enhance functionality, health, and comfort to meet modern lifestyle needs. 2nd Textile Innovation Startup Zone: Showcases breakthrough innovations and technology applications from global startups, highlighting the vitality and potential of textile entrepreneurship. 3rd Wearable Technology X Textile Design Competition (WTTDC 2025): Displays how top designers are advancing textile design through creativity and technology, reinforcing the central role of textile design. AI Driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Textiles Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly penetrating the textile industry, becoming a core force in driving the fourth industrial revolution. AI is transforming the sector in all aspects, from automating production processes and smartening R&D to optimizing supply chains and revolutionizing sales models. By empowering businesses, AI enhances production efficiency, reduces costs, enables customized designs, and optimizes user experiences. At the "T-EXplorer Textile Innovation Hub," the application of AI will be a key topic. We will showcase successful case studies and explore in depth how AI helps textile companies tackle industry challenges, seize new business opportunities, and drive digital transformation. Environmental Sustainability: Impact of the 2024 Waste Framework Directive Environmental sustainability has become a crucial topic in the global textile industry. In 2024, the European Parliament passed the Waste Framework Directive, introducing the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system for textiles. This mandates textile companies to take responsibility for the recycling, sorting, and regeneration of products, especially those sold in European markets. This legislation not only accelerates the textile circular economy but also brings new opportunities and challenges. At the "T-EXplorer Textile Innovation Hub," experts will delve into the impact of this directive on the global textile industry, helping companies find adaptive strategies and explore eco-friendly technologies and sustainability strategies, aiding in discovering new growth opportunities. Driving Industry Innovation and Future Development By focusing on new productivity and environmental sustainability, "T-EXplorer Textile Innovation Hub" is dedicated to providing direction and solutions for the future development of the textile industry. We cordially invite global industry leaders, innovators, and corporate representatives to participate in this exhibition, exploring exciting future fields in the textile industry and promoting industry innovation and green transformation.

Technology Leads the Future: Exploring New Trends in the Textile Industry Future Textile and Technology Trends In this era of digital revolution, technology is omnipresent, and the textile and apparel manufacturing industries are no exception. From smart robotics to artificial intelligence, the ways in which textiles are produced and consumed are being transformed. Today, let’s explore some of the technological trends reshaping this industry and how they are defining the future of fashion. 1. Sustainable Manufacturing and Green Practices With the rising consumer awareness of environmental protection, the textile industry is actively adopting green production technologies to minimize environmental impact. Innovations like water-saving dyeing techniques and the use of renewable energy are helping companies become more energy-efficient and reduce emissions. These practices not only benefit the environment but also allow companies to lower long-term costs. 2. Digital Transformation Throughout the Process From design to manufacturing and sales, textile companies are fully embracing digitalization. Through cloud management tools and big data analytics, companies can respond to market demand faster, optimize production processes, reduce waste, and enhance efficiency. Digital transformation not only makes the supply chain more transparent but also enables smarter operations across the entire process. 3. Integration of Digital Twins, AR/VR, and IoT Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are not only changing the way we experience fashion but are also assisting designers and manufacturers in creating more precise and personalized products. Digital twin technology enables real-time monitoring of machinery and factory operations, significantly enhancing production efficiency and accuracy. These cutting-edge technologies offer endless possibilities for future production and design. 4. Circular Economy and Waste Reduction In pursuit of environmental responsibility, the circular economy is becoming a core concept in the textile industry. Through recycling, reusing, and regenerating materials, companies can effectively reduce resource wastage. Designing more durable, repairable products and recycling old garments to create new items not only minimizes waste but also aligns with consumers' demand for sustainable fashion. 5. Transparent Supply Chains and Traceability Consumers are increasingly concerned about the origin and production process of products, making a transparent supply chain essential. With blockchain technology and traceability systems, companies can track the origin of raw materials and monitor each production stage, ensuring every step meets ethical and environmental standards. This transparency greatly enhances consumer trust. In addition to these exciting technological trends, The 20th International Exhibition on Textile Industry (ShanghaiTex 2025) is quietly driving industry transformation. Since its inception in 1984, ShanghaiTex has served as a core platform for textile technology innovation, bringing together leading global technology and expertise. In 2025, this event will focus on sustainable development and digital innovation, showcasing more cutting-edge intelligent manufacturing and green technologies, making industry collaboration more efficient. If you're curious about the future of textiles and want to learn more about leveraging the latest technological trends to enhance your business, ShanghaiTex 2025 is a platform you won’t want to miss. Here, traditional craftsmanship meets future innovation, and green sustainability joins forces with intelligent technology, painting a greener and smarter future for the textile industry. The 20th International Exhibition on Textile Industry (ShanghaiTex 2025) ShanghaiTex 2025 will be held from December 16 to 19, 2025, at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. As an important global event long-awaited by the textile industry, this year’s ShanghaiTex will feature the theme "United for a Greener Textile Future," focusing on five major innovation directions. Textile companies, scholars, designers, and brand innovators will join forces to reshape the industry and create new possibilities for textile craftsmanship, design, and innovation. In the post-pandemic era, the textile industry is facing unprecedented changes and opportunities. ShanghaiTex 2025 will lead the industry into a new era, fostering collaboration across the supply chain and embracing sustainable and digital innovation. The exhibition will combine traditional crafts with innovative showcases, creating new opportunities for textile industry upgrades and helping the industry reach new heights.

ShanghaiTex Scheduled for December 16-19, 2025 Joining Hands with the Textile Industry for a Sustainable Future Opening a New Paradigm with Five Key Innovation Directions The 20th Shanghai International Textile Industry Exhibition (ShanghaiTex 2025) will be held from December 16 to 19, 2025, at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre. As an important global event long-awaited by the textile industry, this year’s ShanghaiTex will feature the theme "United for a Greener Textile Future", with a focus on five major innovation directions. Textile companies, scholars, designers, and brand innovators will join forces to reshape the industry and create new possibilities for textile craftsmanship, design, and innovation. Collaboration Across the Supply Chain, Tapping into New Resources In the post-pandemic era, the textile industry is undergoing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. From now onwards, ShanghaiTex is honoured to have the unprecedented support from Shanghai Textile Association, the Shanghai Federation of Industry and Commerce's Textile and Apparel Chamber of Commerce, and the Shanghai Textile Science Research Institute. This has enabled the show to have access to new buyers’ and sellers’ resources, expanding applications and gathering industry peers who are eager for innovation. Together, the organization will seek breakthroughs in this new era. Ji Shengjun, Director of ShanghaiTex Organizing Committee, Chairman of Shanghai Textile Association, President of Orient International (Holding) Co., Ltd. said, "ShanghaiTex is our own national brand. Since its debut in 1984, it has brought enormous business opportunities to the textile industry with its unique market insights and long-term development strategies. ShanghaiTex 2025 will integrate more resources and foster innovative development. Our entire organizing committee will work with the industry to discuss macro policies, future trends, and business pain points. This will help guiding companies in adjusting their production models for a green and intelligent digital transformation which is for the enhancement of their overall competitiveness." A Full-wing Collaboration - Focusing on Five Innovations For companies to stand out in the new normalcy, they must focus on technological innovation, green production, and sustainable development. ShanghaiTex 2025 will be rooted in traditional segments such as spinning, weaving, knitting, dyeing, and printing technologies, while focusing on five innovation directions through featured displays and exploring new business opportunities in the process of textile industry's upgrade: New Products – Green Fashion Materials The display of new fibers, new materials, green production technologies, environmental protection, and recycling solutions will help the textile industry better understand the feasibility of sustainable development, gradually achieving carbon neutrality. New Manufacturing – Intelligent Production Artificial intelligence, automated production, and efficiency improvements are essential for companies to stay ahead in this new era. This zone will feature remote management, digital production, AI, IoT, software, and cross-border platforms, showcasing the new directions of the textile industry post-pandemic. New Technology – Innovative Applications Displays will include smart wearable devices, the integration of wearable products with textiles, rehabilitation products, female-specific needs across different ages, and smart safety textiles designed for the elderly and children, offering brands and designers new possibilities for product development. New Consumption – Personalized Production Technology On-demand production, 3D technology, customized design, and supply chain optimization will allow designers and brands to harness AI for creative and product development, leading fashion consumption toward "personalized customization." At the same time, O2O (online-to-offline) consumption models will meet the new generation's demand for individuality and new consumption patterns. New Services – Digitalization and E-commerce The zone will showcase new sales models, highlighting the transformation of traditional textile and apparel operations. The chain from factory to consumer will be significantly shortened. Buyers of the new generation, who focus on social media, will facilitate brands to reach younger audiences in the most effective way, offering more efficient channels for brands to engage with consumers. T-Explorer Textile Innovation Hub ShanghaiTex has always promoted various activities to explore the integration of new technologies and products with the industry. Building on past success, ShanghaiTex 2025 will host the "T-Explorer Textile Innovation Hub" with concurrent events to foster interactive communities and communication across industries: Sustainable Development Series / 2nd Green Sustainability Forum The 4th Artificial Intelligence on Fashion & Textile International Conference (AIFT 2025) The 4th International Health Textile Technology Conference The 2nd Textile Innovation Startup Zone The 3rd Wearable Technology X Textile Design Competition (WTTDC 2025) ShanghaiTex 2025 Theme Zones T-EXplorer (New) Spinning, Man-made Fibre & Techtextile Machinery Zone Weaving Machinery Zone Spare Parts and Accessories for Textile Machinery Zone Knitting and Hosiery Machinery Zone Printing, Dyeing & Finishing Machinery Zone Digital Printing Machinery, Dyestuff & Textile Chemicals Zone Event Organizers and Support ShanghaiTex is hosted by the Shanghai Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT Shanghai), Shanghai Chamber of International Commerce (COIC Shanghai), Shanghai Textile Association, and Orient International (Holding) Co., Ltd., with organization by Shanghai Textile & Information Exhibition Co., Ltd. and Shanghai Pudong International Exhibition Co., Ltd. Co-organizers include the Shanghai Federation of Industry and Commerce Textile and Apparel Chamber of Commerce, Beijing Talent-Expo Co., Ltd., and Shanghai LinkWell Exhibition Co., Ltd., with technical support from the Shanghai Textile Science Research Institute. Alafa Conference & Exhibition Services (Shanghai) Company Limited is providing support as a supporting unit. For more details and exhibition inquiries, please visit the official WeChat. ShanghaiTex 2025 Exhibitor and Buyer Inquiries: Exhibitor Inquiries: Contact: Mr. Zhang Phone: (86) 18930320059 Email: exhibiting@shanghaitex.cn Address: No.43 Aomen Road, Shanghai, China Buyer Inquiries: Contact: Ms. Wang Phone: (86 21) 62166365 Email: visiting@shanghaitex.cn Address: No.43 Aomen Road, Shanghai, China

In an era of rising environmental awareness, the fashion industry is experiencing a green revolution, creating unprecedented business opportunities. Over 100 billion garments are sold globally each year, adding immense pressure on the environment while also driving demand for sustainable fashion. For companies willing to adopt eco-friendly innovations, the green textile market offers significant potential. Global sustainable fashion is expected to grow at an annual rate of 8%, with the market expanding from 7.12 billion euros in 2022 to 10.45 billion euros by 2027. Gaining a foothold in this field could be the key to future success. The Huge Potential of Green Textile Materials 1. Organic Natural Fibers As consumer demand for eco-friendly products grows, brands using organic natural fibers are flourishing. For instance, renowned brands like Patagonia utilize organic cotton, linen, hemp, and other natural fibers to reduce environmental impact and enhance product quality. These eco-friendly materials add appeal to brands and provide high-value business opportunities for the textile industry. 2. Innovative Use of Recycled Materials Recycled materials are transforming the textile industry. For example, Adidas collaborated with Parley for the Oceans to create sneakers from ocean plastic, significantly reducing plastic waste and offering market differentiation and environmental labels. The development of recycled materials reduces reliance on raw resources and creates new profit growth points in the fashion industry. 3. Rise of Bio-based New Materials Bio-based materials such as bamboo fiber and pineapple leaf fiber are redefining environmental standards in the fashion industry. These innovative materials not only reduce the need for traditional fibers but also offer unique appearances and textures, providing designers with new creative possibilities. As consumers increasingly prioritize eco-friendly products, the market demand for bio-based materials will continue to grow, bringing more opportunities to the industry. Technological Innovation and Circular Economy in the Textile Industry 1. Lifecycle Management System The lifecycle management system within a circular economy provides the textile industry with a feasible path to reduce waste and lower costs. By controlling the entire process from production, use, to recycling, brands can enhance their social responsibility image while expanding their global market share. For example, Reformation’s clothing recycling program attracts environmentally conscious consumers and strengthens brand loyalty. 2. Smart Manufacturing and Digital Transformation The application of digital and smart manufacturing technology enables the textile industry to accurately predict market demand, avoid overproduction, and reduce inventory waste. Unmade, for example, uses 3D printing to produce garments based on customer customization, significantly reducing resource waste during production. This technology not only increases operational efficiency but also opens up a high-end custom market with new profit potential. 3. Green Dyeing and Process Innovation Green dyeing and eco-friendly processes are becoming a new trend in the fashion industry. Brands like Aarong use natural plant dyes, reducing the environmental impact of harmful chemicals while enhancing product sustainability. Green dyeing processes save energy, reduce consumption, and offer healthier, eco-friendly choices for consumers. Breakthroughs in Green Technology and New Opportunities through Collaboration One of the most exciting breakthroughs in the textile industry is the use of bio-recycling technology. For example, France’s Carbios uses biotechnology to achieve infinite recycling of PET plastic, attracting partnerships with renowned brands such as Patagonia and PUMA. This technology provides a solution to plastic waste while creating a new eco-friendly market for textile companies. ShanghaiTex 2025: Business Opportunities in the Future of Green Fashion The future of green fashion is filled with endless opportunities. From December 16 to 19, 2025, the 20th International Exhibition on Textile Industry (ShanghaiTex 2025) will be held at the Shanghai New International Expo Center, serving as an ideal platform to showcase the latest eco-friendly technologies, innovative materials, and smart manufacturing. This event will bring together global industry experts, innovators, and brands to explore the green future of the textile industry. For companies aiming to lead in sustainable fashion, this is an opportunity not to be missed. By participating in ShanghaiTex 2025, industry leaders can establish new business connections, share the latest eco-friendly technologies and market trends, and further drive the global growth of green fashion. Are you ready to seize this opportunity? Let’s explore the future of green fashion together and promote the sustainable development of the textile industry!