Textile Raw Material – Textile Focus https://textilefocus.com Textile Focus: Textile News, Apparel News, RMG News & Articles Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:26:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.5 https://textilefocus.com/wp-content/uploads/tf_icon_152x152-1-150x150.png Textile Raw Material – Textile Focus https://textilefocus.com 32 32 CEMS-Global USA to Host the 23rd Bangladesh Edition of the Prestigious Textile Series of Exhibitions from Nov 6 – 9, 2024 https://textilefocus.com/cems-global-usa-to-host-the-23rd-bangladesh-edition-of-the-prestigious-textile-series-of-exhibitions-from-nov-6-9-2024/ Mon, 21 Oct 2024 10:26:32 +0000 https://textilefocus.com/?p=43815 As Bangladesh’s Textile and Garment sector continues to flourish, CEMS-Global USA proudly announces the highly anticipated 23rd edition of the Bangladesh edition of its globally renowned Textile Series of Exhibitions, which is held annually in Bangladesh, Brazil, Morocco, Sri Lanka, and Thailand; comprising 3 major international expos that serve as a vital platform for the […]

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As Bangladesh’s Textile and Garment sector continues to flourish, CEMS-Global USA proudly announces the highly anticipated 23rd edition of the Bangladesh edition of its globally renowned Textile Series of Exhibitions, which is held annually in Bangladesh, Brazil, Morocco, Sri Lanka, and Thailand; comprising 3 major international expos that serve as a vital platform for the textile and garment industry. This leading event, which is the oldest of its kind in the region for the past 23 years, promises to be a landmark for the South-Asian textile and garment industry, highlighting the latest in technology, materials, chemicals, and innovations that will define the future of the sector.

CEMS Expoin 2024

These 3 comprehensive exhibitions focused on the Textile and Garment Industry of Bangladesh will be held from November 6 – 9, 2024 at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center, near Kanchan Bridge, Purbachal, Dhaka from 10 am to 7 pm, daily; bringing together key manufacturers from across the globe to highlight the latest advancements, innovations, and trends in the textile supply chain sector.

The Bangladesh edition of CEMS-Global’s Textile Series of Exhibitions will feature:

  • 23rd Textech Bangladesh 2024 Expo – While remaining one of the premier platforms for the Textile and Garment Industry for Bangladesh and South Asia and showcasing cutting-edge Textile Garment Technology and Machinery, this expo will offer a unique opportunity for manufacturers, suppliers, and industry experts to explore the latest innovations in textile production, garment machinery, and related technologies.
  • 22nd Dhaka International Yarn and Fabric Show 2024 – A dedicated platform to exhibit the most up-to-date collections of Yarn, Fabric, Trims, and Accessories, this show will cater to the rapidly evolving needs of the textile and apparel industry, connecting visitors with top suppliers and manufacturers from around the world.
  • 45th Dye+Chem Bangladesh 2024 International Expo – Focused on Dyestuff, Fine & Specialty Chemicals, this expo will bring to the forefront the latest dyestuff and chemical solutions for the textile industry, with an emphasis on sustainability and innovation in dyes and chemical processes.

This series of exhibitions is poised to be a key driver for the Bangladeshi textile and apparel industry, providing an unparalleled platform for networking, business development, investments, and cross-border collaborations. Over its 23 years, this Series has solidified its position as a crucial event for manufacturers, technology providers, and industry leaders. With participation from leading international manufacturing companies, the exhibitions will also contribute to Bangladesh’s status as a global hub for textile and garment manufacturing and maintain its position as the world’s 2nd largest garment exporter. These exhibitions are bringing together exhibitors and visitors from all over the world, providing unique platform for business development. One of the key benefits of these exhibitions is that buyers and visitors do not have to go through the hassle of visa processing as the event makes it easier to conduct business under one roof. These exhibitions eliminate the need for buyers and visitors to travel to different countries, saving them time and effort bring everything just at the door-step. Additionally, these exhibitions are helping to bring a lot of foreign currency into Bangladesh. It is expected to be a great B2B meeting platform.

CEMS-Global USA, based in New York, is a Multinational Exhibition & Convention Organizer, having its operations across 4 continents. Established in 1992, CEMS-Global, in this span of over 32 years has been committed to organizing Professional B2B Trade Shows for important Business sectors of the trade and economy. CEMS-Global also assists Trade Associations, Governments, and businesses as an International Trade & Export Development Agency in international markets, including market research, export strategy development, partner identification, and trade promotion.

CEMS-Global’s one of its notable Textile Series of Exhibitions focuses on the Textile and Garment sector. This series of exhibitions serves as a vital platform for Global Manufacturers of the textile and apparel sector to come together, tap highly potential markets, and showcase the latest trends, products, and technologies.

This Series brings together manufacturers and suppliers from around the world to showcase their latest products, network, explore new business partnerships and opportunities, access potential Global markets, and stay updated on the advancements shaping the Global Textile and Apparel landscape.

Through CEMS Global USA’s Bangladesh edition of the Textile Series of Exhibitions, visitors from the industry can see a diverse range of textile products and solutions including Textile Apparel Machinery, Yarn, Fabric, Apparel, Trims, Accessories, Dyestuff & Chemicals. These exhibitions cover the entire textile value chain, from raw materials to finished products, enabling visitors to network with Worldwide Manufacturers under one roof and clinch profitable deals.

Bangladesh has long been recognized as a key player in the global textile and garment industry. As one of the largest apparel exporters in the world, the country’s continued investment in innovation and sustainable practices is essential for maintaining its competitive edge. The 2024 edition of the Textile Series of Exhibitions by CEMS-Global USA is a testament to Bangladesh’s growing prominence as a hub for textile & garment innovation and manufacturing.

By hosting this trio of internationally acclaimed expos, CEMS-Global USA aims to foster collaboration between industry stakeholders, promote knowledge-sharing, and drive the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices within the sector. The exhibitions will also serve as a gateway for foreign companies looking to expand into Bangladesh’s vibrant textile and garment manufacturing market, helping to strengthen the country’s position as a global leader in the textile supply chain.

These Exhibitions will not only be a platform for showcasing products and technologies but also a forum for fostering meaningful connections between industry players. With a special emphasis on innovation and sustainability, the event aims to equip businesses with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the modern textile landscape.

In addition to the wide array of exhibitors, the event will feature panel discussions led by industry thought leaders, offering visitors valuable insights into market trends, technological advancements, and sustainable practices. Networking opportunities will abound, making it an ideal space for Bangladeshi Textile and Garment industry professionals to establish new partnerships, explore business opportunities, and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving market.

As the textile industry continues to innovate, adapt, and grow, these 3 comprehensive exhibitions will once again serve as a vital platform for industry leaders to showcase their latest innovations, exchange ideas, and chart the future course of the Bangladeshi as well as the global textile and garment sector.

The exhibitions will be open to the Business visitors upon registration every day from 10:00 am to 7 pm. For more information, please visit www.textech-bangladesh.com, www.bd.cems-yarnandfabric.com, www.bd.cems-dyechem.com

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Small-Scale Farmers in Africa Increasing Focus on Biodiversity in Fight Against Effects of Climate Change https://textilefocus.com/small-scale-farmers-in-africa-increasing-focus-on-biodiversity-in-fight-against-effects-of-climate-change/ Wed, 09 Oct 2024 10:06:59 +0000 https://textilefocus.com/?p=43618 How much of an impact is climate change having on Africa’s biodiversity? How is it damaging agriculture? To answer these questions, Cotton made in Africa (CmiA), the internationally recognised standard for sustainably produced cotton, worked together with the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute to survey the people whose very existence is under threat by climate change: […]

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How much of an impact is climate change having on Africa’s biodiversity? How is it damaging agriculture? To answer these questions, Cotton made in Africa (CmiA), the internationally recognised standard for sustainably produced cotton, worked together with the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute to survey the people whose very existence is under threat by climate change: cotton farmers in Zambia. Beyond observing how the consequences of climate change threaten their work and lives, the survey shows that they also know that there are ways to counteract these consequences effectively.

Focus on Biodiversity in Fight Against Effects of Climate Change

The loss of biodiversity and the effects of climate change are currently taking a serious toll on cotton cultivation south of the Sahara. But how are the people actually growing the cotton affected? Cotton made in Africa is actively committed to the preservation and promotion of biodiversity in African cotton-growing areas. As part of these efforts, the Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF), which is the organisation behind CmiA, held group discussions with farmers in Zambia to examine where they are seeing ecological changes and what measures they are taking in response. “The discussions focussed on addressing challenges and solutions together with farmers in Zambia,” says Nina Schöttle, the project manager for monitoring and evaluation, adding, “Our overall goals are to stop the decline in biodiversity and to increase the resilience of small-scale farmers in Africa through comprehensive measures that actively involve people in the growing regions.”

African Small-Scale Farmers Report on Declining Biodiversity and Its Consequences

According to the recent survey, the loss of biodiversity is clearly noticeable in rural Africa. Deforestation, poaching, and the expansion of settlements have severely affected many wild animals, even leading to the extinction of some species, and fuelled many conflicts between humans and wildlife; the survey also reports a problematic water shortage in the rivers. In the discussion groups, farmers describe the various methods they use to observe changes in the fields and the environment. For example, the lack of certain fungi in the forests indicates that biodiversity has decreased. Changes in soil structure and colour also indicate poorer soil quality, and the proliferation of certain weeds, such as witchweed and ragwort, is an indication of changes in the biological balance They also observed climatic fluctuations, such as unusually high or low temperatures and irregular precipitation patterns.

In discussions with local farmers, it became clear how declining biodiversity influences their fields. Soil fertility is decreasing, which has led to lower yields. In the past, good results could be achieved without fertilisers, but today this is more challenging. Bush fires and the use of herbicides have reduced the presence of useful soil organisms such as earthworms, which help to break down organic material.

Measures to Promote Biodiversity

The small-scale farmers involved in the six group discussions clearly made the point that the way in which their cotton fields are managed has a significant impact on soil health and biodiversity in their surroundings. This is why small-scale farmers use crop rotation or integrated pest management for their fields in addition to limiting the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides to a minimum and substituting organic alternatives whenever possible. To conserve soil quality, they avoid tillage, and to increase it, they apply compost and organic fertilisers such as cow manure.

The promotion of sustainable practices for more climate and environmental protection in agriculture has been enshrined in the Cotton made in Africa standard for many years, and these values are shared with small-scale farmers through regular training courses. Through these and similar training programmes, CmiA primarily aims to increase small-scale farmers’ resilience against the effects of climate change and to improve their livelihoods in the long term. The survey was carried out in July 2024 by the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute (ZARI), in co-operation with the Aid by Trade Foundation, through six focus groups in Zambia. The group of CmiA small-scale farmers consisted of 46 percent men and 54 percent women; of this total, 66 percent have lived in the area since birth and 34 percent for 10 to 20 years.

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Growth Opportunities for Cotton https://textilefocus.com/growth-opportunities-for-cotton/ Thu, 26 Sep 2024 04:25:43 +0000 https://textilefocus.com/?p=43322 Seshadri Ramkumar, Professor, Cotton and Advanced Materials Laboratory, Texas Tech University, USA Member states of the United Nations are committed to implementing the Sustainability Development Agenda by 2030. As part of the plan eradication of poverty is the priority, which requires sustainable growth in all forms. Cotton and other agricultural crops fit well in the […]

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Seshadri Ramkumar, Professor, Cotton and Advanced Materials Laboratory, Texas Tech University, USA

Member states of the United Nations are committed to implementing the Sustainability Development Agenda by 2030. As part of the plan eradication of poverty is the priority, which requires sustainable growth in all forms. Cotton and other agricultural crops fit well in the sustainability agenda as they impact the lives of farmers, manufacturers, exporters, retailers, and consumers.

Growth oppurtunities

Impact on Lives and Economy

Cotton is a drought resistant crop requiring less water compared to some food crops and hence vital for farmers in arid and semiarid zones of the world. Although not a food crop it offers livelihood for small farmers in rainfed areas. Even in developed nations such as the United States and Australia farmers use sustainable practices as stewards of the environment. In West Texas, cotton farming is split between dryland and irrigation, and in irrigated lands, it is supplemental emphasizing the importance of saving resources and energy for future generations. The consumption of cotton is related to economy, which influences the demand. This is the situation we are currently experiencing adding stress to the entire cotton ecosystem. Global cotton industry must use adverse situations such as the current one to plan solutions for such scenarios in future and create new opportunities. It is important for the cotton sector to chart mid and long-term strategies for: 1) increasing the demand for cotton and cotton goods; 2) increasing the yield in low productivity countries like India; 3) increasing the profitability across the supply chain; 4) enhancing the awareness on cotton and the industry to broad consumers; and 5) collaboration with government, brands and retailers.

Increasing the Demand

Recent discussions in local and national cotton meetings clearly highlight the lack of demand for cotton and the need to boost the consumption of cotton. Macro economy, affordability and competition from other fibers are factors influencing the demand. While the industry has little control over economy, efforts must be made to penetrate markets, beyond fiber to fashion supply chain such as advanced textiles, where there are opportunities. Cotton has been a preferred next-to-skin friendly apparel as it is presold based on comfort. Cotton is penetrating beyond the commodity markets and concerted efforts by the industry are needed to enhance the penetration into non-commodity markets. Engaging with R&D organizations, brands, and retailers to take cotton into functional, advanced and activewear products is the need of the hour.

A classic example of cotton industry working with brands to enable the penetration of cotton into activewear is the effort by the United States’ Cotton Incorporated with Under Armour. The cotton industry has invested heavily in understanding microplastic issues as a way of advocating the positive aspects of non-microplastic fiber such as cotton. Efforts should be made to engage more with consumers on the health issues of microplastics and promote cotton as a viable candidate. The medical industry has shifted away from using cotton drapes and overalls due to the cost competitiveness of spunbond-meltblown-spunbond products. Environmental issues and the comfort aspects of multi-use cotton surgical drapes must be relayed to the medical community. There are opportunities for single-use cotton products in the medical and health care sector. Opportunities are there in industrial sectors where sustainability values are gaining popularity. Major brands and private labels are incorporating cotton and other natural fibers in their products. Costco Wholesale Corporation was one of the early entrants to release Kirkland wipes made with cotton. Stakeholders in the industry must go on high gear to find new and value-added markets.

Productivity Improvement

India and cotton growing African countries have productivity issue. In India, farmers, spinners, and textile exporters are striving hard to improve the productivity. Government is urged to continue and enhance the support for cotton missions aimed at increasing yield per hectare, quality enhancement and contamination elimination. Good breeding programs by national agricultural organizations like ICAR-CICR, Nagpur and state agricultural universities and extension stations such as the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and Navsari University need to be supported with funding boost. The stakeholders particularly cotton farmers should engage regularly with extension specialists and with researchers during the growing season about treating pests, handling weeds, irrigation practices as these depend on weather and environmental conditions. In Lubbock, which is the epicenter for cotton production in the United States, such engagement efforts are well organized throughout the year by the cotton producers’ organization, Plains Cotton Growers. In India grassroot level producer spearheaded activities are needed to boost the yield and quality. Information exchanged among farmers, seed and chemical companies, and marketers will prove beneficial in terms of handling issues that affect the yield and quality. More importantly in India and Africa where land holding by individual farmer is far less than those by producers in the United States, Brazil, and Australia, uncertainties and variabilities are pronounced, which necessitates the need for timely knowledge dissemination. Technology and marketing information need to be shared in timely fashion so that they can be implemented in the growing season. The textile sector for its own benefit should enable grassroot level efforts at farm levels. High yielding and stress tolerant varieties should be developed based on soil and environmental conditions. Governments have a role to play in boosting funding support to seed companies and breeders so that quality seeds can be developed at competitive cost.

 Outreach and Engagement

Sustainability is the way forward in the textiles and manufacturing sectors. Outreach and educating the consumers and brands are strategies that will help with enhancing the consumption of natural fibers. Also, as natural fibers have not penetrated technical textiles as much as synthetics, given the need for sustainable products, efforts must be made towards research, dissemination of results, and outreach. It may not be possible to find use in all sectors of advanced textiles, but areas such as environmental protection, insulation, and health offer immediate possibilities.

Opportunities for cotton in advanced textiles must be disseminated to young leaders and consumers to boost its consumption. 

Our laboratory has been engaging with wide spectrum of population such as Gen Z, to highlight the usefulness and advantages of cotton. On July 12, 2024, two young leaders from Africa visited the Cotton and Advanced Materials Laboratory at Texas Tech University (TTU). In their first visit to the United States as Mandela Washington fellows funded by the United States’ government, they are spending 6 weeks at TTU.

Dr. Idda Mihindi is a medical doctor from Tanzania who has founded Fursa Foundation, which manufactures and distributes washable cotton-based sanitary pads for rural women and secondary school girls, who cannot afford hygiene products. Greogory Rakobe is from Botswana and has interest in using native plants to develop skin and health care products. As these two young leaders work in the sustainability area, they expressed interest in visiting the Advanced Materials Laboratory to learn about industrial applications of cotton.

Mihindi and Rakobe conducted experiments using waste cotton based nonwoven pads and understood the oil sorption capabilities of cotton. “The sustainable role of cotton used is eye-opening to me,” stated Idda Mihindi. Visitors interacted with graduate students in the laboratory who work in cotton and sustainability projects enabling advanced applications for cotton.

Timely disseminating information on new applications of cotton and natural materials will advance the sustainability goals of textiles and manufacturing sectors. As African continent has large population and is advancing in its economy, engaging with next generation leaders will boost the consumption of natural fibers. The industry should look for opportunities for natural fibers and recycled natural products in the advanced textiles industry.

Four-Legged Table Approach

While cotton and textile sectors are aware of the persistent problems facing the sectors, it is imperative that a win-win development plan is formulated. Governments must play a supporting role in reducing the risks. In the United States the five-year Farm Bill has been a successful mechanism in mitigating risks. Current Farm Bill expires this September, and we are witnessing the campaigns across the country to get this bill reenacted in a timely fashion.

Imagining the strategy as a four-legged table, to have a balanced table, all four legs are needed. The four pillars are: 1) technology enhancement; 2) market development; 3) new product development and 4) outreach and engagement.Note: Appeared in the Conference Book of the “All India Cotton Conference,” September 20-21, 2024, held at Aurangabad. The conference was organized by the Cotton Association of India an Maharashtra Cotton Ginners Association with Khandesh Ginners Association and Vidarbha Cotton Association.

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Brazilian Cotton Prices Drop Below BRL 4 per Pound Amid Increased Supply https://textilefocus.com/brazilian-cotton-prices-drop-below-brl-4-per-pound-amid-increased-supply/ Wed, 04 Sep 2024 09:18:40 +0000 https://textilefocus.com/?p=42967 In August, Brazil’s cotton market experienced a significant drop in prices, with rates falling below BRL 4 (~$0.71) per pound. This decline was primarily attributed to a surge in domestic cotton supply, coupled with lower international prices and reduced export parity. As a result, the market witnessed heightened liquidity for prompt-delivery trades, offering more attractive […]

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In August, Brazil’s cotton market experienced a significant drop in prices, with rates falling below BRL 4 (~$0.71) per pound. This decline was primarily attributed to a surge in domestic cotton supply, coupled with lower international prices and reduced export parity. As a result, the market witnessed heightened liquidity for prompt-delivery trades, offering more attractive prices to consumers, according to the Centre for Advanced Studies on Applied Economics (CEPEA).

Cotton 0768i

Over the month, the CEPEA/ESALQ cotton index, calculated with payment in eight days, saw a 4.65% decrease, closing at BRL 3.8863 (~$0.69) per pound on August 30. This downward trend reflects the ongoing challenges faced by the Brazilian cotton sector, especially in the context of global market fluctuations.

The 2023-24 cotton harvest in Brazil is proceeding well, with 76.1% of the total area harvested by August 25, according to the National Supply Company (CONAB). Harvesting activities have been completed in Mato Grosso do Sul, and favorable dry and warm weather conditions have supported the progress in Mato Grosso, the country’s largest cotton-producing state. CEPEA highlighted these developments in its latest fortnightly report on the Brazilian cotton market.

In addition to falling prices, Brazil’s cotton exports also witnessed a sharp decline in August. Over the 17 production days, 77.7 thousand tons of cotton were shipped, representing a 53.5% drop compared to the 167.2 thousand tons exported in August 2023. However, the daily export average saw a slight increase of 0.77% to 4.57 thousand tons, compared to 4.54 thousand tons per day in the same month last year, according to the Secretariat of Foreign Trade at the Ministry of Economy (SECEX/ME).

This combination of factors underscores the challenges and complexities facing Brazil’s cotton industry as it navigates both domestic and international market dynamics.

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Archroma presents “planet conscious” solutions at Febratex 2024 to help accelerate the textile industry’s shift to sustainability https://textilefocus.com/archroma-presents-planet-conscious-solutions-at-febratex-2024-to-help-accelerate-the-textile-industrys-shift-to-sustainability/ Sat, 24 Aug 2024 04:49:19 +0000 https://textilefocus.com/?p=42834 Archroma, a global leader in specialty chemicals towards sustainable solutions, is bringing its latest “Planet Conscious+” innovations to FEBRATEX 2024 in Brazil with the aim to empower the region’s textile mills and brands to lead the industry shift to sustainability. “Brazil’s integrated textile supply chain positions it as a leader in sustainability. Archroma supports local […]

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Archroma, a global leader in specialty chemicals towards sustainable solutions, is bringing its latest “Planet Conscious+” innovations to FEBRATEX 2024 in Brazil with the aim to empower the region’s textile mills and brands to lead the industry shift to sustainability.

Archroma Febratex Booth2

“Brazil’s integrated textile supply chain positions it as a leader in sustainability. Archroma supports local mills and brands in addressing water and energy, chemical use and waste management challenges while also boosting their international competitiveness. FEBRATEX 2024 is the ideal showcase for our innovations and concepts, like SUPER SYSTEMS+,” Leonardo Harsch, VP South and Central Americas, Archroma Textile Effects, said.

SUPER SYSTEMS+ are powerful end-to-end systems that combine fiber-specific processing solutions and intelligent effects. Drawing on the industry’s broadest product portfolio, the SUPER SYSTEMS+ suite encompasses wet processing solutions that deliver measurable environmental impact from sizing to finishing; durable colors and functional effects that add value and longevity to the end product; and cleaner chemistries that eliminate harmful or regulated substances.

Textile industry professionals will be able to explore Archroma’s “PLANET CONSCIOUS+” vision at FEBRATEX 2024 and discover breakthrough SUPER SYSTEMS+ technologies such as Archroma’s DENIM HALO, a newly launched concept for denim production that is both eco-friendly and simple, aniline-free* DENISOL® PURE INDIGO 30 LIQ pre-reduced indigo, and the patented EarthColors® technology that creates high-performance bio waste-based dyes from non-edible food and agricultural waste. Archroma is also showcasing ULTRATEX® STS-U, a highly compatible hydrophilic silicone softener for cotton and cotton blended knits with excellent running stability, Siligen® EH1, a biomass-based silicone softener that has excellent moisture management and delivers a smooth soft touch, AVITERA® SE GENERATION NEXT for cellulosic fibers and blends that enables significant resource savings, superior chlorine fastness and improved cost-to-performance ratio for dark and extra-dark shades, and ERIOPON® E3-SAVE all-in-one auxiliary.

Meet the Archroma team at FEBRATEX 2024

Being held for the 18th time this year, the biennial FEBRATEX is one of the largest and most influential textile trade fairs in the Americas. More than 56,000 visitors attended in 2022.

Visit Archroma in Brazil at Booth 24, Hall 3 at the Centro de Eventos Vila Germanica Blumenau for FEBRATEX 2024 from August 20 to 23, 2024.

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Outreach and Engagement is Essential for the Cotton Sector https://textilefocus.com/outreach-and-engagement-is-essential-for-the-cotton-sector/ Thu, 23 May 2024 03:52:00 +0000 https://textilefocus.com/?p=41438 Seshadri Ramkumar, Professor, Texas Tech University, USA Opportunities for cotton in non-commodity applications can arise based on effective outreach and engagement with broader audience. Cotton needs to be presold based on its environmental friendliness. Plastic pollution is receiving highest attention with the recent conclusion of the 4th session of intergovernmental negotiating committee to negotiate global plastic […]

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Seshadri Ramkumar, Professor, Texas Tech University, USA

Opportunities for cotton in non-commodity applications can arise based on effective outreach and engagement with broader audience. Cotton needs to be presold based on its environmental friendliness.

Plastic pollution is receiving highest attention with the recent conclusion of the 4th session of intergovernmental negotiating committee to negotiate global plastic treaty held in Ottawa, Canada, April 23-29, 2024. Importantly, the document on plastic production and pollution prepared by the United Nations Environmental Program was used as an aide memoir during the discussion. According to the document, there is a link between plastic pollution and human health and the environment. It calls for ending the pollution instructing the need for bold vision and plan. This gives impetus for natural fiber sectors like cotton to go on a high gear in cotton productivity and quality improvements, thinking beyond the commodity and common fashion products. There needs to be more encouragement for developing advanced products from cotton and natural fibers that can serve as alternatives to plastics. Importantly, industry must be involved in outreach and engagement to tell positive stories of cotton and how it can combat pollution.

Cotton 0768i

Leading cotton associations like the USA-based National Cotton Council and Cary, NC-based Cotton Incorporated and the Cotton Association of India, are doing their part to promote the positive values of cotton by supporting research and marketing campaigns.

In addition to these efforts, it is important that these campaigns reach youngsters at middle and high schools, colleges, and universities as these are future consumers with independent decision making and buying powers. In the United States, which is one of the leading cotton producers and exporters of cotton, academic institutes emphasize the importance of outreach and engagement with the industry and society. Such efforts must be replicated in other cotton nations, where there are active engagements with stake holders to gather the latest information and increase the footprint of cotton in various products.

An engagement activity, “Lab in a Bag,” from our laboratory is aimed at highlighting the advanced applications of cotton to school students and public by taking portable laboratory and conducting experiments whetting public’s appetite on cotton and its advanced applications. We have engaged with stakeholders and students in United States and India to promote cotton in industrial applications both via in person and virtual presentations.

Experiments with cotton were conducted in forums organized by the Workforce Solutions of Texas in agricultural towns such as Muleshoe and Plainview. Demonstrations form a vital part of presentations made in the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce’s events such as Young Leaders Forum, STEM Nights hosted in elementary schools, etc.

 In India, which is a major cotton producing and consuming country, positive aspects of cotton and its applications to clean-up toxic oil spill are regularly presented in forums organized by the 20,000-member strong Textile Association of India and in institutions like Coimbatore-based Kumaraguru College of Technology and Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science & Higher Education.

Nonwovens and advanced textiles industry can explore opportunities in cotton, and other natural fibers by engaging with institute and academia such as Mumbai-based Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology, to name a few.

 Presentation made to Mandela fellows from Africa on the emerging applications of cotton is archived here:

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Cotton Demand Needs to Pick Up https://textilefocus.com/cotton-demand-needs-to-pick-up/ Tue, 16 Apr 2024 03:22:00 +0000 https://textilefocus.com/?p=40609 Seshadri Ramkumar, Professor, Texas Tech University Cotton sector is looking for a better year and pickup in demand. Mills are buying cotton but there is a need for an uptick in demand. On April 2, 2024, about 350 people gathered in Lubbock for the 67th annual meeting of the Plains Cotton Growers (PCG). PCG’s President Martin […]

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Seshadri Ramkumar, Professor, Texas Tech University

Cotton sector is looking for a better year and pickup in demand. Mills are buying cotton but there is a need for an uptick in demand. On April 2, 2024, about 350 people gathered in Lubbock for the 67th annual meeting of the Plains Cotton Growers (PCG). PCG’s President Martin Stoerner opened the meeting stating the last two years have been tough for the producers, but the industry is resilient and hopes for a better 2024.

Cotton

The recent USDA’s Prospective Planting report shows that the U.S. producers are expected to plant 10.7 million acres, which is up from 10.26 million acres planted last year. However, industry leaders expect the planted acreage this year to be in the range of 11 to 11.5 million acres. “Demand is weak but improving,” stated Jody Campiche, Vice President of Economics and Policy Analysis, National Cotton Council. Global economy and competition from other fibers play an important part in impacting the demand for cotton. There needs to be a significant improvement in GDP to see major change in demand, added Campiche. In addition to the economy, just in time inventory practiced by global mills also impact excessive buying and stockpiling stated a cotton merchant.

Industry is optimistic and is hoping for improved demand by the end of 2024. With the moisture situation better than what it was last year in the High Plains of Texas, it is hoped that production will improve. There will be less abandonment, increasing the chances for improved supply. This will necessitate demand enhancement to yield better prices for the farmers as the cost of production has increased by 30% in recent years.

With slow demand and the left-over stock from the 2023 crop, the current price levels may be due to speculation, which is the sentiment shared by cotton economists whom I interacted with at the meeting. Looking at long term scenario, the slow birth rates in developed economies and stagnant population in China, albeit the relaxation in childbirth policy there, demand for consumer goods like textiles will be impacted.

The cotton industry has competition from synthetics, which are cheaper than cotton. In addition, there is growing competition for markers among leading exporting nations. What should the industry plan and do? Telling positive stories about sustainability, traceability and engaging not only with brands but also with consumers as being done by the United States-based Cotton Incorporated become important. Additionally, better advocacy for supportive policies in a collective fashion is much needed. “Advocacy is a team sport,” stated Kody Bessent, CEO of Plains Cotton Growers. The industry needs to engage in better outreach efforts, find new and industrial applications for cotton and invest in research to come out with new chemistries, and environmentally friendly post-harvest processing technologies. Efforts to boost the demand and promote sustainability values of cotton will be the collective task of the global cotton sector.

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BD Textile millers request RMG factories to buy 70% yarn from local spinners https://textilefocus.com/bd-textile-millers-request-rmg-factories-to-buy-70-yarn-from-local-spinners/ Sat, 06 Jan 2024 08:57:33 +0000 https://textilefocus.com?p=37480 Local spinners have urged the government to introduce a provision in the yarn import rules, which will make it mandatory for the export-oriented readymade garment factories to procure 70% of their total cotton yarn requirements from the local spinning mills under back-to-back letters of credit (LCs) to ease the existing dollar crisis. The Bangladesh Textile […]

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Local spinners have urged the government to introduce a provision in the yarn import rules, which will make it mandatory for the export-oriented readymade garment factories to procure 70% of their total cotton yarn requirements from the local spinning mills under back-to-back letters of credit (LCs) to ease the existing dollar crisis.

sewing threads as multicolored background close up 1
Sewing threads as a multicolored background close-up

The Bangladesh Textile Mills Association in a letter to National Board of Revenue chairman Abu Hena Md Rahmatul Muneem on December 12 made the demand, saying that if apparel were produced with local yarns, the value addition would be 65% while it would be 30% when produced with imported yarns.

The BTMA in its letter said that the local spinners produced export-standard carded and combed yarns in huge quantities and they could meet 85% of the total demands of the export-oriented apparel industry.

The BTMA letter, signed by its president Mohammad Ali Khokon, also urged the NBR to scrutinize the compatibility of the import price of yarns with other competitor countries before releasing the goods from ports.

The BTMA said that the price difference between the local and imported yarn was not more than $0.15-$0.25 a kilogram as Bangladesh depended on imported cotton and other components for producing yarns and a neighbouring country having raw materials could export yarns at lower prices.

The BTMA in its letter proposed installing yarn count testing machines at land ports and recruiting more workforces with required training to protect revenue losses.

According to the BTMA, Bangladesh imported 0.793 million tonnes of yarns in FY23 financial year, while the figure was 0.588 million tonnes in FY20.

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Pulcra and Devan unveil DEVAN REPEL, a new brand in the water repellency market https://textilefocus.com/pulcra-and-devan-unveil-devan-repel-a-new-brand-in-the-water-repellency-market/ Wed, 06 Dec 2023 04:20:00 +0000 https://textilefocus.com?p=36927 In a world where water-repellent textiles play an important role in various industries, Pulcra Chemicals, a global leader in sustainable chemical solutions, has joined forces with its subsidiary, Devan Chemicals, to introduce DEVAN REPEL: a new brand in the water repellency market. The first product in that range, DEVAN REPEL ONE, is a durable water […]

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In a world where water-repellent textiles play an important role in various industries, Pulcra Chemicals, a global leader in sustainable chemical solutions, has joined forces with its subsidiary, Devan Chemicals, to introduce DEVAN REPEL: a new brand in the water repellency market. The first product in that range, DEVAN REPEL ONE, is a durable water repellent for Polyester and blends developed on the scientific foundation of the companies’ chemical and textile technology know-how.

DEVAN REPEL ONE, the new water repellent takes a smart step forward by combining cutting-edge chemistry with eco-conscious principles. This solution offers a range of interesting benefits:

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  • Superior Performance: The technology offers outstanding water repellency performance, ensuring that textiles remain dry. Whether it’s rain and outdoor wear, outdoor furnishing, shower curtains or multiple technical textiles, the new solution can handle it, making it a strong choice for industries where water resistance is paramount.
  • Flexibility: The versatility of this technology is another key advantage. It can be applied to a wide range of materials, with especially good results on polyester and its blends, offering flexibility for various applications across industries.
  • Enhanced Sustainability: This technology is free from perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), and free from isocyanates.
  • Longevity: Products treated with this water repellency technology are protecting from the elements for a longer lifespan.

Performance, particularly on effect durability, can be boosted to meet different requirements with new DEVAN EXTENDER GEN3. This extender is free of Isocyanate, Butanone-oxime and 2-dimethylpyrazole.

“This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to delivering value to our customers,” said Thomas Bremer, Global Head of SBU Textile at Pulcra Chemicals and Managing Director of Devan. “By combining Pulcra’s extensive chemical expertise with Devan’s textile technology know-how, we are excited to bring a high performing, cost-effective product to the market.”

Whether it’s keeping outdoor enthusiasts dry in a downpour, ensuring athletes stay comfortable during intense workouts or enhancing the functionality of tents, DEVAN REPEL ONE does the job.

The development of DEVAN REPEL ONE is a joint to Devan and Pulcra’s dedication to innovation and sustainability. By continually pushing the boundaries of textile technology, Devan and Pulcra are helping to create a more comfortable and sustainable world.

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Opportunities in Chad’s Cotton Sector with Multistakeholder Meeting https://textilefocus.com/opportunities-in-chads-cotton-sector-with-multistakeholder-meeting/ Tue, 28 Nov 2023 05:06:19 +0000 https://textilefocus.com?p=36813 Cotontchad is convening a multi-stakeholder event in Chad to explore the potential for a Better Cotton Programme The multi-stakeholder event will include participants from national ministries, cotton farmer representatives, private sector actors and civil society organisations, and will promote dialogue on perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in sustainable agriculture in the cotton sector in […]

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Cotontchad is convening a multi-stakeholder event in Chad to explore the potential for a Better Cotton Programme

Cotton Bell

The multi-stakeholder event will include participants from national ministries, cotton farmer representatives, private sector actors and civil society organisations, and will promote dialogue on perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in sustainable agriculture in the cotton sector in Chad.

Cotontchad supports around 200,000 smallholder farmers across the country. Through financial aid and the allocation of resources, it has helped increase yields from 17,500 metric tons (MT) in 2019 to more than 145,000 MT in 2022.

Oliver Renson, Chief Executive Officer at Cotontchad, said: “We are committed to developing the sustainability credentials of Chadian cotton and are aligned with Better Cotton’s aims. This meeting will help establish next steps required to create the right enabling environment to continue to deliver for the country’s cotton farming communities.”

Pramit Chanda, Global Director Textiles and Manufacturing at IDH, said: “IDH is firmly committed to supporting the sustainable development of the cotton growing region of Chad. Supporting Cotontchad alongside Better Cotton will benefit close to 200,000 farmers, strengthening international market linkages. This will contribute directly to the broader regional development objectives of the Climate Resilient Cotton Landscape which we are convening in Chad.”

Alan McClay, Chief Executive Officer at Better Cotton, added: “Convenings like this are fundamental to the success of our operations. Not only do they help us forge and strengthen partnerships within the sector and beyond, they also help us learn from like-minded organisations that share our commitment to supporting cotton farming communities.”

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