Declining cotton consumption needs a big boost, and innovation only holds the key, opine industry experts. It was a session of introspection for the cotton community! At the USA Cotton meet at the Trident Hotel in Mumbai recently, an august gathering of cotton industry experts watched with awe and avid interest at the Executive Director of Cotton Council International, Bruce A Atherley’s concerns over declining cotton consumption and call for attempts to give a boost to this natural fibre’s fortunes globally.

As the calendar shifts into the final quarter of 2016, our thoughts shift into visions of festivities, celebrations, and family.

Brussesls hosted the European Textiles conference (going digital, going high-tech) on October 12 and 13, which was attended by 150 participants from 24 countries attended the two day event. The key highlight of the event, organised by the European Technology Platform for the Future of Textiles and Clothing (Textile ETP), was the unveiling of the Strategic Innovation and Research Agenda (SIRA).

The Chinese are investing in Vietnam’s textile and garment industry before TPP comes into play. The garment industry is the strongest magnet for Chinese investors, while textile and dyeing also lure Chinese investment but at a lower level. Vietnamese apparel products would enjoy a zero tariff in the US after Vietnam signs the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement. Vietnam is working on a plan to help local manufacturers improve competitiveness when the TPP takes effect.