Uzbekistan is expanding knitted fabric production as its textile industry moves toward higher-value products and deeper domestic processing.

Large textile enterprises produced 70,100 tons of knitted fabric in 2025, up 32.5% from the previous year. The strategy focuses on processing more cotton into yarn, fabric, knitted products, and finished garments instead of relying mainly on raw cotton exports.

Uzbekistan’s broader textile industry recorded strong growth in 2025. Textile exports reached $2.6 billion, with products shipped to 75 countries. The number of textile-exporting companies increased to 1,409, including 502 new exporters. Exports of finished textile products rose 18.5% from 2024.

The growth continued in 2026. During January–June, large enterprises produced UZS 54.4 trillion (~$4.27 billion) worth of textile products, marking 10.1% growth year-on-year. Textile exports reached $1.6 billion, up 24.1%. Finished textile products accounted for 53% of exports, while yarn represented 31% and knitted fabrics 9%.

The government has set a $4 billion textile export target for 2026, including $700 million through e-commerce platforms. It also plans to expand capacity for 397 million square meters of fabrics, 224 million garments and knitwear products, and 108 million square meters of dyed textiles.

This expansion indicates a continued shift toward higher-value textile manufacturing, with knitted fabric becoming an important part of Uzbekistan’s export-oriented supply chain.

Carbios has demonstrated a complete European fiber-to-fiber production chain that converts complex textile and plastic waste into finished polyester T-shirts. This marks a step from laboratory recycling toward industrial textile applications.

The French biotechnology company worked with Patagonia, PUMA and Salomon through its Fiber-to-Fiber Consortium to process difficult waste streams containing polyester blends such as cotton and elastane, as well as dyes, finishes and silicones. These materials are among the more challenging textile waste streams for conventional recycling.

The latest demonstration builds on significant process data generated at Carbios’ Clermont-Ferrand facility. In July 2026, the company reported more than 95% conversion within 24 hours when processing complex post-consumer textile waste. It had also completed its 100th production batch, demonstrating what it described as robust and reproducible performance under conditions representative of industrial operations.

For the latest garment demonstration, Carbios converted complex waste into high-purity monomers. Selenis in Portugal then repolymerized them into more than 1 ton of recycled PET, branded EnzyTex. The material was spun into yarn by ANTEX in Spain, knitted into Interlock fabric by Henitex in France, dyed by TAD, and finally made into T-shirts by ToptexCube of Chamatex Group.

Carbios is now moving from technology validation toward commercial deployment. The company has expanded its licensing offering to the textile market, while its planned Longlaville industrial facility in France targets production startup in the first half of 2028, subject to project financing and finalization.

Primark has signed a long-term purchase agreement with recycling technology company Circ to increase its use of recycled polyester made from textile waste.

The deal could help move textile-to-textile recycling from technology development toward larger-scale commercial use. Circ’s technology can separate polyester and cellulose fibers from blended textile waste, addressing one of the industry's biggest recycling challenges.

For Primark, the agreement provides a pathway to increase recycled content in its products while supporting a new source of secondary polyester. For Circ, a long-term buyer provides stronger demand as the company works to scale its recycling technology.

The partnership also highlights a critical shift in textile circularity. Brands need to commit to buying recycled fibers, while recyclers need the capacity to produce them at commercial scale.

The key challenge now is scale. Collection, sorting, feedstock quality, and recycling costs will determine how quickly textile-to-textile recycling can become a commercially viable alternative for the wider industry.

Building on nearly two decades of continuous expansion with Rieter, Sportking Ltd. once again demonstrates how long-term technology partnerships pay off. The introduction of the 1.5-meter Rieter card C 81 delivers a breakthrough production gain of 43% alongside stable, high-quality output. The result is better operational efficiency and stronger competitive positioning.

Sportking Ltd., India’s leading vertically integrated textile conglomerate, operates 380 000 spindles with fully integrated operations. Their manufacturing facilities are equipped with the latest machinery, producing yarns and garments that are benchmark in quality and innovation in domestic and international markets. To drive long-term growth, the company continues to expand its spinning capacity through a structured, turnkey approach in close partnership with Rieter.

Scaling productivity while securing process stability

As spinning capacity increased, Sportking required a carding solution that could integrate seamlessly into phased expansions and perform reliably with diverse raw-material blends. The Rieter card C 81, with its 1.5-meter width, maximum technological carding area with 40 active flats controlled by Carding Gap Control (CGC) and highest cylinder circumference utilization, delivers superior fiber treatment, high sliver quality and strong operational performance.

Munish Avasthi, Chairman and Managing Director of Sportking, states: “We are impressed by the excellent performance of the C 81. It has it all: outstanding productivity, consistently high quality and smart features.”

43% production gain

With the C 81, Sportking achieved a remarkable 43% increase in production compared to earlier card generations – while maintaining excellent and stable sliver quality. This performance leap is particularly evident in the production of Ne 30 combed ring yarn, one of the mill’s core products. Here, the high-performance card reaches an output of 110 kg/h, while at the same time reducing yarn imperfections by 27%. This combination of higher productivity and improved quality translates into a step-change of performance for Sportking.

More output, efficient mill layout

The C 81’s stellar productivity directly improves mill economics. Higher output per machine means fewer cards are required, resulting in:

• lower overall energy consumption,
• reduced maintenance and service efforts as well as
• more efficient use of floor

At the same time, CGC is Rieter’s latest advancement in intelligent carding technology. CGC uses state-of-the-art acoustic sensor technology and an intelligent data model to proactively and automatically maintain the optimal carding gap to ensure steadily high sliver quality. At Sportking, this has resulted in reliable nep count without any manual intervention, even when wire life exceeds 700 tons.

For Sportking, the investment in the C 81 is more than a capacity increase – it is a strategic step toward future-ready, efficient and reliable production with measurable benefits from the very start.

Jiang Yanhui, Vice President and Secretary of the General Party Branch of Hengtian Enterprise, brings more than two decades of experience in the textile and apparel industry. He previously served as General Manager of Hengtian subsidiary Wuxi Gedi Garments Co., Ltd., before taking his current leadership roles in 2020. His work has focused on overseas operations, digital transformation, AI-enabled manufacturing, smart and green factory development, and industrial upgrading. In 2025, he was recognized for his contribution to high-quality development in Xishan District.

During Intertextile Shanghai 2026, Textile Today spoke with Jiang about HANDA’s global manufacturing strategy, its major investment in Bangladesh, the evolving capabilities required by premium customers, and the role of industry–university collaboration in future textile innovation.

Textile Today: What is the strategy behind HANDA’s diversified and global manufacturing network?

Jiang: The strategic thinking behind HANDA’s global manufacturing model is to build a more flexible, resilient and customer-oriented supply chain. Today, global customers are not only looking at price. They are paying much more attention to speed, quality, flexibility, sustainability, compliance and supply-chain stability. At the same time, different markets and different products have very different requirements.

That is why HANDA has developed manufacturing capabilities across different countries and across different parts of the textile value chain, from knitting and dyeing to garment manufacturing. Each manufacturing base has its own strengths in terms of cost, capacity, location and product capability.

This diversified model allows us to allocate production more effectively according to customer needs. More importantly, it reduces our dependence on any single country or production base and gives us greater flexibility when market conditions change.

So, for HANDA, globalization is not simply about expanding capacity. It is about building a manufacturing network that can respond faster and provide customers with more reliable and competitive solutions.

Textile Today: What capabilities are becoming most important for manufacturers serving premium global brands?

Jiang: For manufacturers serving premium global brands, I believe competition is increasingly about overall capability rather than one single advantage.

Quality and compliance are the foundation, but they are no longer enough. Customers also expect suppliers to provide strong product development, technical expertise, fast response and reliable delivery.

Product development is becoming especially important. A strong manufacturer should not simply wait for customers to provide specifications. We need to understand market trends, consumer needs, fabrics, functionality and manufacturing technology, and then actively provide solutions.

Speed is another critical capability. The market is changing faster, so development cycles and lead times are becoming shorter. This requires much stronger coordination between design, development, sourcing, production and logistics.

In the future, I believe the most competitive manufacturers will be those that can combine quality, innovation, speed, compliance and supply-chain management into one integrated capability.

Textile Today: Why is Bangladesh important to HANDA’s global strategy, and how is the investment progressing?

Jiang: Bangladesh has been an important part of HANDA’s global manufacturing strategy for many years. After further assessment of the market and extensive discussions with the Bangladeshi authorities, we became increasingly confident in the country’s long-term potential. This is why we expanded our original investment plan to approximately US$250 million.

There are several reasons behind this decision. Bangladesh has a strong textile and garment industry, a large and experienced workforce, and an increasingly complete industrial ecosystem. We have also received strong support from government agencies including BIDA, BEZA and BEPZA, which has given us greater confidence in expanding our investment.

Our plan is being developed in three phases. The first phase has already established our initial garment manufacturing capacity and provided us with a strong foundation for further expansion. The second phase is currently under construction and will significantly increase our garment production capacity. The third phase has already been confirmed, and land preparation is now underway. This phase will further extend our capabilities into integrated knitting and dyeing.

Once all three phases are completed, HANDA will have a much larger and more integrated manufacturing platform in Bangladesh, covering both textile and garment production.

We see Bangladesh not simply as a low-cost manufacturing location, but as an important long-term manufacturing base within HANDA’s global network. At the same time, we hope our investment can contribute to the next stage of Bangladesh’s textile industry by bringing more integrated manufacturing, advanced technology, management systems and higher-value-added production to the country.

Textile Today: How can university–industry collaboration help HANDA accelerate innovation??

Jiang: From our experience working with Jiangnan University, I believe the greatest value of university–industry collaboration comes from connecting academic research with real industrial problems.

Universities have strong capabilities in fundamental research, materials science, textile engineering and new technologies, while companies understand production conditions, customer requirements, cost pressures and the practical challenges of commercialization. When these two sides work closely together, research can become much more relevant to industry.

For example, companies can bring real production problems to university research teams, while universities can provide scientific analysis, new materials, new processes and technical solutions. The company can then test and validate these solutions in actual production environments.

For HANDA, we do not want university–industry cooperation to remain only at the level of individual research projects. We hope to build a long-term platform where research, technology development, industrial application and talent development can support each other.

The real value of collaboration is achieved when research moves from the laboratory into production and finally becomes measurable improvements in quality, efficiency, cost, sustainability or product innovation.

Textile Today: What skills will HANDA need from the next generation of textile professionals?

Jiang: As HANDA becomes more international and our manufacturing operations become more integrated and technology-driven, our expectations for talent are also changing.

Technical knowledge will always be important, but future professionals need much more than technical knowledge alone. We need people who can understand the entire value chain, communicate across functions and cultures, solve practical problems and adapt quickly to new technologies.

For engineers, this means combining textile expertise with automation, digitalization, data analysis and sustainability. For managers, global communication, supply-chain thinking and cross-cultural management will become increasingly important.

I also believe problem-solving ability is critical. In industry, problems rarely belong to only one department. A production issue may involve materials, technology, planning, quality, cost and customer requirements at the same time. Therefore, young professionals need to learn how to look at problems from a broader business perspective.

Universities such as Jiangnan can help by giving students more exposure to real factories, real projects and real industrial challenges. The closer education is connected with industry, the faster young people can turn academic knowledge into practical capability.

Ultimately, we hope to develop people who not only understand textiles, but also understand technology, business and the global manufacturing environment.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Modern Syntex Limited (MSL) have signed a $50 million loan agreement to expand energy-efficient polyester chips production in Bangladesh.

The agreement for the Modern Energy-Efficient Polyester Chips Manufacturing Project was signed on 29 September, according to an ADB press release.

The financing will support MSL’s expansion of its polyester chips production capacity from 107 tons to 407 tons per day. Part of the financing will also be used to refinance the company’s short-term local working capital loans.

The expanded facility will produce high-intrinsic-viscosity polyester chips, which are used in higher-value textile and apparel products. The increased production is expected to strengthen domestic availability of synthetic inputs and reduce Bangladesh’s reliance on imports.

“Bangladesh’s textile and ready-made garment industry is a key driver of the economy, but it continues to rely heavily on imported synthetic inputs,” said Qingfeng Zhang, ADB Country Director for Bangladesh.

Notably, the financing would help MSL increase domestic production, strengthen local supply chains and support higher-value textile manufacturing.

The project will introduce energy-efficient machinery and technologies expected to save around 4,840 megawatt-hours of electricity annually and reduce approximately 2,222 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions each year.

As part of the project, Modern Syntex will also pursue Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification for its building and factory, further supporting the facility’s environmental performance.

The expansion is expected to increase the domestic supply of polyester chips, reduce dependence on imported raw materials, shorten lead times and improve production efficiency for textile manufacturers.

Also to create around 100 new jobs, with MSL planning to promote greater participation of women through inclusive recruitment practices.

“We greatly value ADB’s support as it enables MSL to significantly expand polyester chips production, strengthen local supply chains, and reduce dependence on imported inputs,” said Abu Sufian Chowdhury, Managing Director, Modern Syntex Limited.

He said investment in energy-efficient technology would strengthen the company’s competitiveness while supporting the wider textile industry.

MSL, a part TK Group, operates Bangladesh’s first continuous polymerization facility at the Mirsarai Economic Zone in Chattogram.

To strengthen Bangladesh’s MMF backward linkage, Modern Syntex produces PSF, PET chips and polyester filament. This large‑scale output reduces dependence on imported intermediate raw materials.

Prof. Ma Pibo is Dean of the School of Textile Science and Engineering at Jiangnan University, a Zhishan Post Professor and a doctoral supervisor. His research focuses on the design and performance of flexible textile structural materials. He has led more than 20 government, provincial and military research projects, including three funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, as well as more than 40 industry-academia collaborative projects.

He has received 11 provincial and ministerial-level science and technology awards, published more than 160 SCI-indexed papers and secured over 50 national invention patents. He was also recognized as a China Textile Academic Leader in 2022.

In an interview with Textile Today, Prof. Ma discussed how textile education must evolve alongside digitalization and AI, why industry–academia collaboration is critical to innovation, the opportunities for deeper Bangladesh-China cooperation, and the technologies he believes will shape the future of textiles.

Textile Today: How is Jiangnan University preparing students for the changing textile industry?

Prof. Ma: As one of China’s earliest institutions dedicated to textile higher education, we have always focused on industry needs and student competency. With the textile sector becoming increasingly digital, intelligent and sustainable, we have systematically reformed our curriculum.

First, we have developed a “Textile+” knowledge framework. Alongside textile materials, technologies, processes and dyeing and finishing, students receive training in mathematics, physics, chemistry, electrical engineering and information science. We are also integrating textile education with computer science, software engineering, AI and bioengineering. Programs such as the Textile Industrial Software Innovation Class and Advanced Textile Excellence Class are designed to develop students who combine textile expertise with digital capabilities.

Second, we have strengthened practical education through real-world problems. For more than a decade, we have brought genuine technical challenges from companies into classrooms, laboratories, internships and graduation projects. Our full-process engineering teaching center also allows students to experience the textile production chain from spinning to weaving and finishing.

We have also developed high-quality academic resources. Four courses, including Textile Materials Science, Textile Spinning and Textile Weaving, are National First-Class Courses, while four others are recognized at the provincial level. The postgraduate progression rate of our 2025 cohort reached 60.82%, while students won more than 180 national academic competition awards over the past four years.

Textile Today: What makes industry-academia collaboration effective?

Prof. Ma: I would summarize it in three words: real problems, shared platforms and institutionalized routines.

We have created a repository of genuine technical problems collected from partner companies. We convert these into projects for students at different academic levels. Students can work on industrial challenges from their early years through coursework, laboratory work, internships and graduation theses. Solutions can then return to the companies, creating a complete cycle from problem identification to application.

We have established off-campus practice bases with more than 60 companies, as well as 12 Emerging Engineering Innovation Workshops and 10 Jiangnan University Enterprise Textile Research Institutes.

Our cooperation with Handa Group is one example. Since 2021, we have worked together to cultivate excellent engineering talent. In July 2026, more than 170 undergraduate students visited Handa, and on 31 August 2026, we jointly inaugurated the Embodied Robot Intelligent Exterior System Joint Laboratory.

The third element is institutionalization. Company engineers regularly come to campus, university faculty spend time in enterprises, and both sides hold industry-academia matching activities.

Textile Today: How can universities move research from laboratories into industry?

Prof. Ma: Bridging the so-called “valley of death” between laboratory research and factory adoption is one of the greatest challenges for universities. We address this through three approaches: strengthening research platforms, embedding research into industry and proactively engaging with companies.

Our provincial and ministerial research platforms are designed not simply to produce academic papers but to address key technological challenges and support technology maturation and scale-up.

We have also established joint laboratories with enterprises. For example, the Wuxi No.1 Cotton Mill Textile Research Institute works on new products, fiber materials, textile technologies, intelligent manufacturing and green production. Our collaboration with Handa focuses on both current technical challenges and forward-looking technologies. The new joint laboratory on embodied robots and intelligent exterior systems represents another step toward integrating smart textiles and robotics.

Universities should not stop at “0-to-1” discovery. We need to work with industry to achieve “1-to-N” scaling, so that laboratory innovations genuinely transform production.

Textile Today: Where do you see opportunities for Bangladesh-China textile cooperation?

Prof. Ma: Bangladesh is a partner we highly value, and we see significant opportunities in student exchange, joint research, technology transfer, professional training and academic cooperation.

Jiangnan University has already hosted Bangladeshi students through China’s Belt and Road scholarship program. In 2025, we signed an MoU on educational cooperation and joint research with BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology.

There is also strong potential for joint research in high-value utilization of natural fibers and green manufacturing. Bangladesh has abundant jute and cotton resources, while China has expertise in deep processing and functional development. These strengths can complement each other. We are also establishing contacts with institutions including the Jute Diversification Promotion Centre and Bangladesh University of Textiles.

Technology transfer is another important area. China has strong capabilities in fibers, fabrics and machinery, while Bangladesh has a strong apparel manufacturing and export base. We can therefore create direct links between Chinese technology providers and Bangladeshi manufacturers.

We also see scope for customized training programs for Bangladeshi engineers, managers and technicians in smart manufacturing, green dyeing and finishing and quality management.

Textile Today: Which technologies will shape the future of textiles?

Prof. Ma: I see five major areas: smart wearable textiles, advanced fibre materials, green and low-carbon dyeing and finishing, textile waste recycling and circularity, and intelligent manufacturing and digital textiles.

In smart textiles, our researchers have developed breathable fabric-based hydrogel electrodes for long-term ECG monitoring and flexible sensory networks using bubble yarns and meta-fabrics. In advanced fibers, we are working on atmospheric water-harvesting textiles, nanoporous aramid aerogels and high-value utilization of cellulose.

Green manufacturing is another major direction, particularly energy- and emission-saving dyeing and finishing. In recycling, we have developed closed-loop polyester waste recycling technology based on metal-organic frameworks. Meanwhile, our Engineering Research Centre for Knitting Technology is contributing to the digital and intelligent upgrading of knitting.

Education must evolve alongside these technologies. We have introduced programs covering smart textile materials, digital textile technologies and AI, together with a “4+2” integrated bachelor-master program. Real-world, problem-driven projects help students develop the ability to address complex engineering challenges.

At the same time, universities should support existing industry professionals through joint R&D, executive training, specialized workshops and online courses. The role of universities is therefore not only to prepare graduates for the future, but also to become lifelong learning partners for the textile industry.

Textured fabrics are moving beyond aesthetics as buyers look for design flexibility, durability, and verified sustainability. The global embossed polyester fabric market is expected to reach $1.74 billion in 2026, up from $1.68 billion in 2025, and grow to $2.47 billion by 2036 at a 3.6% CAGR. The numbers show a steady market rather than a sudden boom. But the more important story is how technology and recycled materials are changing what embossed polyester can offer.

Thermal embossing remains the dominant technology, holding a 55% market share in 2026. Its cost advantage, pattern durability, and dimensional stability make it widely used in clothing, bedding, and home furnishings. Clothing accounts for 28% of market demand, supported by apparel linings, textured outerwear, and activewear.

The global production map also explains where this market is heading. China is projected to record the fastest growth among the profiled countries at 4.9% CAGR through 2036, followed by India at 4.5% and Germany at 4.1%.

China added 3.03 million tons per year of polyester filament capacity in 2025. Its polyester filament exports also reached 4.35 million tons in 2025, up 10.6% year over year. From January to April 2026, exports increased another 15.3% to 1.57 million tons.

Sustainability is becoming another competitive layer. Recycled polyester embossed fabrics with Global Recycled Standard certification are gaining attention as brands seek traceable materials and stronger sustainability compliance. One cited supplier reported that certified materials represented 83% of its 2025 orders, compared with 72% in 2024 and only 5% in 2020.

Technology is also changing the economics of customization. Digital embossing can support precise patterns, short production runs, and lower minimum order quantities. Some factories can handle new collections at MOQs of 100 to 300 meters.

For Bangladesh manufacturers, this creates potential opportunities in GRS-certified recycled polyester, digital embossing, and higher-value home furnishing and automotive textile applications.

India has imposed new anti-dumping duties on Bangladeshi jute products, raising trade hurdles for exporters as local industry leaders challenge the policy's assumptions.

India has imposed fresh anti-dumping duties ranging from $59 to $445 per ton on jute products from Bangladesh. According to the Indian Ministry of Finance, the new tariffs apply to items including jute yarn, twine, hessian fabric, and sacking bags. This decision follows a mid-term review by India's Directorate General of Trade Remedies. The review concluded that Bangladeshi exporters continued to dump jute goods in the Indian market, causing financial injury to domestic Indian manufacturers.

The trade investigation began in June 2025 after petitions from the Indian Jute Mills Association and the AP Mesta Twine Mills Association. In its findings, the Indian trade authority noted that domestic demand in India fell by 20 percent. Meanwhile, imports from Bangladesh and Nepal dropped by only 13 percent during the same period. This trend indicated that foreign producers were actively gaining market share in India despite shrinking overall local demand.

A total of 17 Bangladeshi companies face a fixed rate of $120 per ton on sacking bags. Six producers received total exemptions across all product lines, while two others secured zero duty for sacking bags and hessian fabric. Any exporter operating outside the listed 36 firms must pay the highest duty rate of $445 per ton on yarn and twine.

Official trade records show that Bangladesh shipped 1.17 lakh tons of jute products to India in fiscal year 2024-25. This volume represents an 18 percent decline compared to the previous year. According to data from the Export Promotion Bureau, overall national jute export earnings peaked at $1.16 billion in fiscal year 2020-21. Earnings dropped to $820 million in fiscal year 2024-25 before recovering by 8 percent to $884 million in fiscal year 2025-26.

Industry leaders in Bangladesh strongly criticized the new trade barriers. According to Tapash Pramanik, chairman of the Bangladesh Jute Spinners Association, the decision relied on inaccurate assumptions regarding state support. He clarified that the government of Bangladesh currently offers only a 3 to 5 percent cash subsidy on yarn, twine, and sacking exports. He termed the measure one-sided and coercive, though he noted that overall shipments of natural fiber goods are unlikely to fall further.

The three‑day virtual AI4BT Global Summit concluded successfully, uniting global and local experts. Discussions spanned AI‑driven enterprise transformation, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)’s future, executive training, and cybersecurity.

The virtual summit, held from Friday evening to Sunday evening (Bangladesh Time), featured industry leaders across AI, ERP, life coaching, banking, and technology sectors. Moving beyond basic AI adoption, international and local domain experts shared practical insights and strategic frameworks for real-world AI-driven business transformation.

Prominent speakers and participants included Sarah Cornett, AI Strategy and Governance Advisor; Dr. Md. Abdur Razzaque, Chairman of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) at Dhaka University; Dr. Asif Naimur Rashid, Chief Business Officer (CBO) of Grameenphone; Mujtaba Sattar Ananta, IBM Certified Quantum Computing Developer; Mark Anupom Mollick, Management Consultant and AI Strategist; Dr. Peter K. Yoon, Leadership Educator and Coach; M. M. Mahbub Hasan, SVP and Head of Financial Inclusion at Prime Bank PLC; Kamrul Hasan, Business Coach and Leadership Trainer; Shabnam Mostari, Master Certified Coach (ICF); and Raisul Kabir, Co-founder and CEO of Brain Station 23.

While the first two days focused on executive strategy, training, and ERP evolution, the final day focused on cybersecurity, human AI readiness, and operational productivity.

On the closing day, Dr. Shariful Islam, Chair of Cybersecurity and AI Governance at Anglia Ruskin University (UK), delivered a keynote on cybersecurity and data governance, highlighting the need to establish a trusted data foundation for enterprise AI.

Dr. Arif Azad, PMP, Transformation Leader, presented strategies for managing engineering risks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and implementing robust AI governance frameworks in heavily regulated enterprise sectors.

Following Dr. Azad, Frank Lieber, Responsible AI Advisor at AI4BT Global, and Tina Lieber, AI-Driven Transformation and Organizational Development Specialist, jointly delivered a keynote on "Human AI Readiness," addressing executive and workplace preparedness in the age of AI.

Day 3 also featured a dynamic roundtable discussion moderated by Mahmudul Hasan, AI Transformation Coach and Co-founder of AI4BT Global, alongside Imdadul Islam, AI Trainer and Business Strategist.

Panelists discussing AI's role in driving enterprise productivity included Mohammad Noor E Alam, Leadership and Learning Architect; Mohammad Zaman, VP of AWS Alliances; Hadi Bhuiyan, Digital Transformation and AI Consultant; Mehedi Hasan Rana, Enterprise AI and Tech Strategist; Faruq Azam Arshad, Enterprise Transformation Specialist; Khan Farhana, Transformation and Strategy Consultant; Arif Hossain, AI and Digital Transformation Leader; and M. M. Mahbub Hasan of Prime Bank PLC.

Following the roundtable, Mohammad Rokanuzzaman, CEO of Metamorphosis Limited, conducted a live demonstration showing how autonomous AI agents execute operational tasks like cash flow forecasting.

Mohammad Abdul Awal Miah, Enterprise Oracle ERP and AI Strategist, subsequently led a discussion on transforming Oracle ERP systems using AI.

In the final strategic keynote, Ubeda Sauda, Enterprise Agile Coach and Scaled Agile Program Consultant (SPC), outlined effective frameworks for large-scale agile transformation, execution challenges, and team structuring for strategic AI roadmap execution.

The event wrapped up with the official unveiling of the "90-Day Enterprise Transformation Blueprint," announcements regarding Delegate Masterclass Certification and post-summit advisory partnerships, and closing remarks by Mahmudul Hasan, Co-founder of AI4BT Global, and Sadiq M. Alam, ERP Consultant and AI Transformation Expert.

Key insights

• Global moisture transport fabrics market is projected to grow at a 5.8% CAGR from 2026 to 2035.
• The market index is expected to reach 175 by 2035, from 100 in 2025.
• Sportswear and activewear account for an estimated 40% of demand.
• Asia-Pacific leads the market with an estimated 45% share.

The global moisture transport fabrics market is entering a sustained growth phase as demand for performance apparel expands across sportswear, outdoor clothing, workwear, and healthcare.

According to the latest IndexBox data, the global moisture transport fabrics market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2026 to 2035. IndexBox forecasts the market to be 75% larger in 2035 than its 2025 base-year level.

Moisture transport fabrics are designed to move perspiration away from the skin and support faster evaporation.  Sportswear and activewear remain the largest demand segment, accounting for an estimated 40% of the market. The growth of athleisure is also extending moisture-wicking fabrics beyond gyms and sports into everyday clothing.

Outdoor and performance apparel represents an estimated 20% of demand. Workwear and uniforms account for about 15%, while medical and healthcare textiles represent 10%. Others account for around 15%.

The market is also being shaped by fiber and fabric innovation. Hydrophilic treatments, microfiber structures, seamless knitting, and 3D fabric engineering are improving moisture management and performance.

Sustainability is becoming another important factor. Recycled polyester and bio-based fibers are gaining traction as brands and manufacturers seek lower-impact material options.

Asia-Pacific remains the largest regional market, with an estimated 45% share. Its strong textile manufacturing base and growing domestic demand for activewear and performance clothing support the region's position.

North America and Europe each account for an estimated 20% share. Both markets are placing greater emphasis on technical innovation and sustainable materials. However, the market faces challenges from synthetic fiber price volatility, higher production costs for advanced finishing, environmental regulations, and supply chain disruptions.

The Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) has proposed a Tk869.97 crore project to rehabilitate two units at the Karnaphuli Hydroelectric Power Station in Kaptai. The project aims to recover 20–30MW of lost generation capacity. The two units have a combined capacity of 100MW but now generate only 35–40MW each.

The project is important for Bangladesh’s apparel and textile industry. Factories need a stable power supply to run spinning, dyeing, finishing, and garment production without delays.

The two Kaptai units have operated since 1988. They now have cracks in major parts, ageing foundations, and outdated control systems. Spare parts for some systems are also difficult to find.

The rehabilitation will replace or repair major generator and turbine parts. It will also upgrade the control, electrical, automation, and auxiliary systems.

The proposed financing includes Tk656.98 crore in foreign debt, Tk200.58 crore from the government, and Tk12.40 crore from BPDB.

The Power Division is considering a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). JICA’s interest rate is expected to reach 3.55% from October 2026, higher than its rates in previous years.

The project is planned for January 2027 to December 2029. For Bangladesh’s apparel sector, restoring existing power capacity could help reduce production disruptions and improve supply reliability. This matters because factories face pressure to meet delivery schedules and control production costs.

Key insights

• July–August 2026 apparel exports to Japan rose 1.33% year-on-year.
• BGMEA targets $3 billion in apparel exports to Japan.
• BGMEA opened a dedicated Japan Desk to connect buyers with Bangladeshi suppliers.
• 172 factories were designated to handle Japanese brand orders.
• The Japan-Bangladesh EPA provides duty-free access to 7,379 Bangladeshi products, including apparel.

Bangladesh is stepping up its apparel market strategy in Japan as the country prepares for a more competitive post-Least Developed Country (LDC) trading landscape. The strategy combines a newly launched BGMEA Japan Desk, a signed Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), and a structured focus on major Japanese buyers.

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) officially inaugurated its Japan Desk on September 23, 2026, at its Dhaka headquarters. The desk operates as a one-stop platform for Japanese buyers and investors. It will facilitate market research, buyer identification, small and medium-sized order handling, and direct coordination with Japanese trade organizations, including JETRO, JICA, JBCCI, and JCIAD.

BGMEA has selected 277 factories for its specialized market entry initiative. Of these, 172 factories are designated to manufacture garments specifically for Japanese brands. Major retailers already sourcing from Bangladesh include Uniqlo, MUJI, GU, and Shimamura.

Trade performance shows a mix of short-term challenges and early signs of recovery. In FY2025–26, Bangladesh’s apparel exports to Japan dropped 4.28% year-on-year to $1.1347 billion. However, shipments picked up in the first two months of FY2026–27 (July–August), rising 1.33% to $227.2 million.

Despite recent friction, Japan remains one of Bangladesh’s strongest non-traditional markets. Performance in FY2024–25 demonstrated that potential, with garment exports hitting $1.185 billion. According to JETRO data, knitwear led the way at $601 million, while woven items reached $584 million, surging 14.4% year-on-year.

Bilateral trade policy is also undergoing a structural shift. Bangladesh and Japan signed their landmark EPA on February 6, 2026. The agreement covers trade in goods and services, foreign direct investment, e-commerce, intellectual property, and customs procedures. Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry confirmed that tariffs will be eliminated across thousands of product lines, including textiles. Crucially, the agreement includes a single-stage transformation rule, making duty-free entry easier for ready-made garments.

While full EPA implementation remains pending, Bangladesh continues to operate under Japan's standard Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). Japan Customs lists Bangladesh as an LDC beneficiary through 2029. The EPA is expected to secure a stable tariff framework after Bangladesh officially graduates from LDC status.

BGMEA aims to scale apparel exports to Japan to $3 billion. The immediate challenge lies in operational execution. BGMEA has identified shorter lead times and strict on-time delivery as non-negotiable requirements for Japanese buyers.

For Bangladesh, the Japan opportunity is evolving from market diversification into a long-term sourcing partnership. The next growth phase will depend on faster delivery cycles, broader product diversification, and full utilization of the EPA once it enters into force.

The installation ceremony of the Institution of Textile Engineers & Technologists (ITET), Bangladesh’s 15th Central Executive Committee brought government representatives, engineers and industry leaders together at the Army Golf Garden in Dhaka. The event introduced the 27 elected committee members and the advisory committee, recognized their roles with crests, and reflected on the committee’s work during its first two months. Speakers called for closer cooperation between ITET, industry, academia and government, while a video presented the upcoming TIE–ITET Textile Innovation Expo 2026.

Zakaria Taher, Honorable Minister, Ministry of Housing and Public Works attended as chief guest, with ITET President Engr. Md. Enayet Hossain chairing the ceremony. The program named Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey, Ambassador and Senior Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles and Jute Secretary; AEB leaders Engr. Shahrin Islam Tuhin, Convenor of AEB and Engr. Shoeb Bashri Hablu, Member Secretary of AEB as special guests. Guests of honor were Engr. Mahbuba Hakim, MP; and Textile Engineers Forum President Engr. A.T.M. Shamsu Uddin Khan.

In the welcome address, ITET Secretary General Engr. A.S.M. Hafizur Rahman Nixon outlined the work undertaken by the committee in its first two months and thanked the guests and members for their support. A short documentary, A Journey of Progress, was screened, showcasing the activities undertaken by the 15th Central Executive Committee so far.

Chief guest Zakaria Taher, Honorable Minister, Ministry of Housing and Public Works, said textile engineers were essential to the industry’s production, technological progress and international competitiveness. As factories face changing technology and pressure to use energy and water more efficiently, he urged ITET to connect industry, academia and government and create more opportunities for the next generation of engineers. He congratulated the committee and expressed hope that it would strengthen ITET as a professional institution.

Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey, Ambassador & Senior Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said textile engineers and technologists as central to the growth of Bangladesh’s apparel industry. Drawing on his experience in Mexico, he urged Bangladeshi missions abroad to take a more active role in connecting exporters with buyers and opening new markets.

Speaking at the ceremony, Engr. Md. Shamsuzzaman, CIP, Managing Director of Micro Fiber Group reflected on the election held after a gap of nearly 13 years. He said the broad participation and constructive atmosphere had given the new committee a strong start. Discussions were already under way on training programs and other activities, he said, pledging to work with the committee.

Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, highlighted the textile and apparel sector’s contribution to the national economy and the central role of textile engineers in its development. He said closer cooperation between ITET and the government could help the sector advance further.

Guest of honour Engr. Mahbuba Hakim, MP, congratulated the elected panel and wished its members success in carrying out their responsibilities. Engr. A.T.M. Shamsu Uddin Khan were also presented as guest of honour, President of the Textile Engineers Forum.

Engr. Shahrin Islam Tuhin, Convenor of the Association of Engineers, said ITET had already received a 10-katha plot in Uttara. He expressed hope that a building for the institution would be developed there soon and assured the committee of his support.

Engr. Shoeb Bashri Hablu, Member Secretary of Association of Engineers, Bangladesh, congratulated the panel and expressed their willingness to work with ITET.

Presiding over the ceremony, ITET President Engr. Md. Enayet Hossain thanked members for their support in the 26 June election. He said the 27-member team aimed to build a more responsive institution for its members. He also renewed ITET’s call for textile engineers to be appointed to commercial wings in Bangladesh’s overseas missions, arguing that their technical knowledge could help exporters respond to market needs.

The ceremony included the presentation of mementos and crests.

ITET Senior Vice President Engr. Sumayel Muhammad Mallik delivered the vote of thanks, followed by a video on the TIE–ITET Textile Innovation Expo 2026, scheduled for 12–14 November at the International Convention City Bashundhara in Dhaka. A cultural program and dinner concluded the evening.

Hemp is gaining attention in denim not only as a lower-impact fiber alternative but also as a way to improve fabric performance. A new study by textile engineering researchers at Istanbul Technical University in Türkiye found that adding hemp to stretch denim can improve moisture management, thermal comfort, and tactile properties.

Published in the Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, the study examined hemp in single-core and dual-core stretch yarns. Researchers tested cotton and elastane blends as well as cotton, T400, and elastane blends.

They evaluated seven denim fabric compositions in both untreated and rinsed conditions. The tests covered moisture management, thermal performance, and fabric handle.

The results showed that hemp improved several moisture-related properties. These included air permeability, water absorption, vertical and transfer wicking, drying efficiency, and relative water vapor permeability. The improvements were particularly notable in fabrics made with single-core yarn blends.

Hemp also influenced the denim's thermal behavior. The fiber increased thermal absorptivity, which can create a cooler feel against the skin.

Hemp has already gained traction among denim brands. Companies including Levi’s, Lucky Brand, and Naked & Famous have used hemp in denim products. However, its relatively coarse fiber has generally limited its share in denim blends, with many products using around 20% to 30% hemp.

For example, Fashion for Good’s Beyond50 Denim project explored technologies to increase hemp content to 50% or more by making hemp fibers better suited for apparel applications.

Read more news:

https://www.textiletoday.com.bd/global-textile-alliance-introduces-plant-based-low-carbon-denim-at-climate-week-nyc

https://www.textiletoday.com.bd/from-resource-intensive-to-resource-smart-denim-is-changing-fast

https://www.textiletoday.com.bd/sustainable-process-makes-bhaskar-denim-popular

The Advanced Fabrication Research Lab (AFRL) at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) has expanded its textile research capabilities with new Shima Seiki knitting and 3D design technology.

The research facility has installed a Shima Seiki SWG-XR WHOLEGARMENT computerized flat knitting machine along with the SDS-ONE APEX4 3D design system.

The new setup is designed to support seamless knit development from digital design to physical prototypes. It will give researchers an integrated environment to develop and test knitted structures for different applications.

The technology will support research across fashion, architecture, product design, engineering, and sustainability. WHOLEGARMENT technology can produce knitted products in one piece, reducing the need for conventional cut-and-sew assembly.

The SDS-ONE APEX4 system adds 3D design capabilities to the workflow. Researchers can develop and visualize knitted products digitally before moving to machine-based prototyping.

The investment is expected to strengthen UTS's research into advanced knitted structures and broaden the use of knitting beyond conventional apparel applications.

 Read more about Shima Seiki:

https://textiletoday.com.bd/shima-seiki-to-showcase-digital-knitting-solutions-at-egypt-stitch-tex

https://www.textiletoday.com.bd/shima-seiki-and-tetas-to-showcase-advanced-wholegarmentr-knitting-technology-at-itm-2026-in-istanbul

The UK’s post-consumer textile waste is driving a new industry effort to build large-scale recycling infrastructure. New Look, Marks & Spencer (M&S), and Sainsbury’s Tu Clothing have joined The Circuit, an initiative focused on recovering and processing textiles that can no longer be reused.

The UK generated about 1.4 million tons of post-consumer textiles in 2024. Nearly half of this volume is estimated to be non-reusable, creating a growing need for systems that can recover textile fibers at scale.

The Circuit aims to collect, sort, and pre-process these textiles into feedstock for existing and emerging fiber-to-fiber recycling technologies. Circle-8 Textile Ecosystems is developing the infrastructure and commercial framework behind the initiative. Its model includes automated textile sorting and pre-processing facilities located close to where textiles reach end of use.

The first phase is scheduled to begin in January 2027 at Oxfam’s site in Batley, Yorkshire. The phase will focus on automated sorting, traceability, identifying recycling opportunities, and developing relationships with recyclers.

Oxfam will operate the automated sorting equipment and separate reusable textiles from materials that can no longer be worn or reused. The organization will also bring its long experience in textile collection, reuse, and recovery.

New Look, M&S, and Sainsbury’s Tu Clothing are among the founding retail partners. Their participation is intended to help test practical recycling models and develop more reliable supply chains for recovered textile materials.

For M&S, The Circuit also supports its Plan A for Another Life ambition to give 5 million items another life by 2030 through rewear, repair, resale, and recycling.

The initiative reflects a shift from textile collection toward industrial-scale material recovery. By creating a more consistent supply of post-consumer textile feedstock, The Circuit aims to help recyclers expand while reducing dependence on virgin materials.

The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) has sought Malaysia’s support to expand exports of Bangladeshi products and services in the ASEAN region and attract more Malaysian investment to Bangladesh.

Taskeen Ahmed, President, DCCI, made the call during bilateral trade and investment discussions with the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (NCCIM) and the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) in Kuala Lumpur on September 25 and 26.

At the Malaysia-Bangladesh Business Forum, Ahmed highlighted readymade garments, pharmaceuticals, electronics, IT-enabled services, jute and jute products, and food products as areas with export potential in ASEAN markets.

He also invited Malaysian businesses to invest in Bangladesh and use the country as a production and export base for South Asian markets.

Norsyahrin bin Hamidon, President, NCCIM, said Bangladesh is one of Malaysia’s important trading partners in South Asia. He said stronger business engagement could help increase bilateral trade and investment.

At a separate strategic forum, Jacob Lee Chor Kok, President, FMM, said greater private-sector engagement could take Bangladesh-Malaysia economic relations to a new level. He also pointed to opportunities for cooperation in new areas.

The discussions also highlighted the contribution of Bangladeshi workers to Malaysia’s economy and the potential for their skills and experience to support Bangladesh’s industrial development after they return home.

A key outcome of the meetings was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between DCCI and FMM. The agreement aims to strengthen cooperation in bilateral trade and investment.

Bangladeshi and Malaysian entrepreneurs also held around 70 business-to-business matchmaking sessions to explore trade, investment, and cooperation opportunities.