A growing number of legislations worldwide are now pushing the industry towards robust Textile Waste Management. The European Union’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles, for instance, mandates that brands take accountability for their products’ entire lifecycle, from collection and sorting to reuse and recycling. Similar frameworks are emerging globally; California, USA, requires producers to join a Producer Responsibility Organisation focused on textile collection and prioritizing reuse and recycling. France’s AGEC Law also compels fashion brands to finance the collection, sorting, reuse, and recycling of post-consumer textiles, reinforcing the legislative impetus behind EPR Textiles.

Retail Giants Embrace Sustainable Fashion

In response to these tightening regulations and consumer demand for Sustainable Fashion, major retail players are actively integrating textile recycling into their operations. European giants like Inditex/Zara, H&M, and Primark are at the forefront of addressing textile waste. H&M, for example, has incorporated Renewcell’s Circulose into a growing number of its collections, utilizing recycled cellulosic materials. Zara has forged direct partnerships with innovators such as Ambercycle and Circ to embed textile-to-textile recycled fibers into their commercial lines. Beyond the EU, Primark’s Textile Takeback programme in the UK, developed with Yellow Octopus, collects unwanted textiles for reuse and regeneration. Uniqlo’s RE.UNIQLO initiative also facilitates the recycling of unwearable garments into new textile materials via in-store collection schemes.

Global Innovators Advancing Textile Recycling Technologies

Buoyed by industry initiatives and a commitment to the Circular Economy, numerous emerging players are scaling their Textile Recycling efforts with innovative technologies. Companies like Circ, Circulose, ErdoTex, Infinited Fibre Company, Recover™, RE&UP, Worn Again Technologies, and Fiberly are establishing themselves as leaders in this critical space.

• US-based Circ has pioneered technology to separate cotton and polyester from post-consumer textile waste through hydrothermal processing.
• Sweden’s Circulose transforms discarded post-consumer and pre-consumer textile waste into dissolving pulp for new cellulosic fibers.
• Finland’s Infinited Fibre Company offers Infinna™, a virgin-quality fiber made entirely from cotton-rich textile waste.
• Netherlands-based Erdotex focuses on textile-to-textile recycling of primarily post-consumer textile waste, managing collection, sorting, and processing across various hubs.
• Seattle-based Evrnu uses its patented NuCycl® technology to break down cotton-rich manufacturing waste and discarded consumer fashion into molecular components, repolymerizing them into new high-performance lyocell fiber.
• Stockholm-based Syre targets large-scale pre-consumer and post-consumer textile recycling, aiming for 3 million metric tonnes of circular polyester annually by 2032.

India’s Pivotal Role in the Circular Economy for Textiles

India is also taking significant strides in nurturing its Textile Recycling ecosystem. This domestic push is partly motivated by upcoming trade agreements with major markets like the US, the UK, and the EU. The impending India–EU Free Trade Agreement, expected by early 2027, holds particular significance for India’s apparel sector, which exports approximately US$4.5–5 billion worth of ready-made garments to the EU. To maximize the benefits of such pacts, Indian manufacturers are strengthening their Sustainable Fashion infrastructure.

Several Indian companies are leading the charge in sustainable textile solutions:

• Vardhman Textiles launched ReNova, a fiber recycling facility in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, transforming pre- and post-consumer textile waste into GRS-certified recycled cotton and polyester fibers.
• Surat-based CanvaLoop converts agricultural waste into forest-free textile fibers known as Agro-Lyocell.
• Mumbai’s ReCircle operates a textile recovery facility where pre- and post-consumer waste is collected, sorted for reusability or recyclability, and then either given a second life or shredded for new fibers. In FY25, their efforts returned 129,357.99 metric tonnes of dry waste to the value chain.
• Panipat-based Respun diverts post-consumer fashion waste and fabric scraps from landfills, sorting and recycling them into new fiber, yarn, and fabric. In 2025, they prevented 6,160 tonnes of textile waste from landfills and reduced approximately 33,600,000 kgs of CO2 emissions.
• Birla Cellulose, part of the Aditya Birla Group, has a strategic partnership with Circ, aiming to purchase up to 5,000 tons of Circ’s pulp annually for five years from Circ’s Saint Avold, France facility.
• Filatex India, through its subsidiary Ecosis Limited, is set to launch a ₹300 crore textile-to-textile chemical recycling facility in Dahej, Gujarat.

Overcoming Challenges for a Regenerative Future

Despite the momentum, Textile Recycling still faces notable barriers. Chemical recycling processes can be resource-intensive, while mechanical recycling often degrades fiber quality and struggles to remove dyes or chemical finishes effectively. Scalability is further hindered by limited collection, sorting, and recycling infrastructure, with recycling costs frequently exceeding the market value of recovered materials.

Addressing these challenges will necessitate stronger policies, clearer mandates, and targeted incentives to accelerate industrial-scale adoption. The global industry’s current recycling rate, which remains below one percent, underscores the extensive work still required to build the comprehensive infrastructure needed for a truly regenerative system based on Textile Recycling for Circular Economy.

Jack Technology will deploy Siemens’ new industrial AI orchestration software, Intelligence Center X, starting with Mendix for agentic low code development, and Designcenter™ software for advanced product engineering – both from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio – to streamline product development, reduce complexity and support new applications for AI and humanoid robotics in sewing workshops.

Headquartered in China, Jack Technology serves customers in more than 160 countries and operates in a highly competitive market shaped by rising demand for shorter lead times, increased product customisation and improved cost efficiency. To address these pressures, the company is integrating AI‑enabled systems and humanoid robots into traditional sewing environments to improve flexibility, responsiveness and production performance.

To support this transformation, Jack Technology will deploy an integrated suite of Siemens’ technologies, including Intelligence Center X and Mendix to rapidly build, deploy and iterate manufacturing and robotics‑related applications, and Designcenter engineering software to support product design, simulation and manufacturing for complex mechanical systems such as humanoid robots. Siemens will also provide specialised technical training to support the development of a dedicated digital platform for the sewing equipment industry.

“Collaborating with Siemens marks a critical step in advancing our digital strategy,” said Hu Wenhai, President of New Product Development at Jack Technology. “The flexibility of Intelligence Center X – Mendix, combined with the capabilities of Siemens’ Designcenter, will help us manage growing manufacturing complexity, accelerate innovation and deliver more intelligent solutions to our customers.”

The integration of Siemen’s digital engineering and agentic enterprise system is designed to deliver measurable operational benefits. Jack Technology expects to shorten development cycles, improve product quality, optimise production workflows, reduce costs and increase overall manufacturing efficiency by up to 30%.

The collaboration reflects a broader shift across the apparel manufacturing sector, as companies adopt software driven engineering, agentic low code development and AI enabled automation to modernise operations and improve responsiveness to evolving market demands.

“We are pleased to collaborate with Jack Technology to explore the potential of intelligent manufacturing, including the application of AI and humanoid robotics,” said Raymond Kok, CEO, Mendix, a Siemens business. “By combining agentic low code development with digital product engineering, manufacturers can move faster from concept to production.”

“This collaboration highlights how digital technologies are reshaping apparel manufacturing,” said Leo Liang, senior vice president and managing director for Greater China, Siemens Digital Industries Software. “With Siemens’ AI-enabled  software portfolio, Jack Technology is well positioned to strengthen innovation capabilities and deliver greater value across the global apparel manufacturing ecosystem.”

Marcin Bojko, LPP’s vice president for Finance, said the fifth consecutive quarter of improved profitability showed that the effects of measures in operational agility, cost control and inventory optimisation were sustainable.

This LPP quarterly performance was delivered despite weaker demand for seasonal collections during colder periods in February and April. Strong sales in March helped offset that impact.

Margin performance reaches a record first-quarter level

The company said it maintained high operational efficiency during the quarter, supported by favourable purchasing conditions, including a stronger zloty against the US dollar and lower freight costs.

Gross margin growth remained a key feature of the quarter. The gross margin reached a record 58.5 per cent, marking the highest first-quarter level in the company’s history. The result was also supported by effective pricing strategies across its brands.

The LPP quarterly performance also reflected continued focus on profitability as the business balanced sales conditions with cost discipline.

Store expansion continues, led by Sinsay

The group continued its store expansion during the quarter, opening 121 new stores. Of these, 102 were added under the Sinsay brand, which remained the main growth driver.

Following these additions, the group’s total retail space surpassed 3 million square metres. The pace of store expansion underlined the company’s ongoing focus on scaling its physical retail network while maintaining a selective approach.

Investment supports logistics and e-commerce sales

Capital expenditure in the quarter totalled PLN 562 million. The company invested PLN 252 million in store network expansion and PLN 276 million in logistics infrastructure.

These logistics investments included the expansion of the Brzesc Kujawski distribution centre, warehouse robotisation, and construction of a new fulfilment centre in Tczew to strengthen international e-commerce operations.

E-commerce sales accounted for 26.6 per cent of total revenue in the quarter. In South-Eastern Europe, e-commerce sales were affected by temporary logistical disruptions linked to a warehouse fire in Romania in June 2025. The company expects logistics capacity in the region to improve with the launch of a new distribution centre in July 2026.

Trading improves after quarter-end

After the quarter ended, the company reported a strong recovery in trading. Omnichannel sales growth reached 20 per cent between May 1 and June 9, supported by warmer weather that lifted demand.

This improvement added to the overall LPP quarterly performance as trading conditions became more favourable after the colder months earlier in the period.

Revenue outlook revised, profitability guidance raised

Reflecting a more selective expansion strategy and current market conditions, the company revised its 2026 revenue forecast to approximately PLN 26-27 billion, compared with its earlier estimate of PLN 28-29 billion.

At the same time, it raised its profitability expectations. It now forecasts a gross margin of around 56 per cent, an EBITDA margin of 23.5-24.5 per cent, and a net profit margin of 9.5-10.5 per cent.

Looking ahead, the company plans to continue expanding Sinsay while keeping its focus on profitability and selective site selection. It expects the brand to open around 750 stores in 2028, with annual openings stabilising at 300-350 stores from 2029 onwards. It also anticipates e-commerce sales growth of 15-20 per cent annually, supported by further market expansion and omnichannel development.

When asked what UK consumers do with clothing they no longer wear, ‘donate’ and ‘recycle’ were the top responses. Globally, only US consumers choose to donate more than UK consumers with a higher percentage (46%) stating they donate clothing they no longer wear. When it comes to recycling, only German and Italian consumers surpass the UK, with 47% and 32% of people, respectively, stating they choose to recycle clothing they no longer wear.

“We spoke to nearly 10,000 global consumers in China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, UK and US, and are thrilled to see UK consumers leading the way in donating and recycling clothing they no longer wear, ” said Andrea Samber, Director of Brand Partnerships for Cotton Incorporated.

“Through the Cotton Lives On™ recycling programme we encourage brands to participate and increase the levels of clothing brands and consumers are giving and recycling, diverting away from landfill.”

The survey also found UK consumers rejecting ‘Throwaway Culture’ with only 22% of UK consumers stating they are throwing away clothing they no longer wear. This is well below the global average of 26% and contrasts sharply with Japan and France with 56% and 53% of consumers, respectively, who said they threw away clothing they no longer wear.

The comprehensive Cotton Incorporated survey also found 22% of UK consumers give to friends and family, 19% sell, 14% repurpose, 13% keep and 10% return clothing they no longer wear.

The Cotton Lives On™ recycling programme works with a premium collective of UK fashion brands and retailers through its cotton recycling programme. Brands joining the Cotton Lives On™ family include &SONS, Margaret Howell, ME+EM, PAIGE, Charles Tyrwhitt, Hush, Whistles, Hobbs, Phase Eight, L’Estrange, Anthropologie, Bianca Saunders, Nexvision, Veronica Beard and The White Company.

The Cotton Lives On™ programme diverts old cottons from landfill and transforms them into mattresses for people at risk of homelessness. To date, the Cotton Lives On™ recycling programme has collected approximately 8,000kg of cotton in the UK and provided over 100 roll mats. Each new roll mat contains the equivalent to 45 cotton T-shirts. People around the UK at risk of homelessness and living in difficult conditions are given the roll mats as part of their first essential products package when moving to a hostel, or as part of their new home kit once they have been found a more permanent place of residence.The Cotton Lives On™ recycling programme’s purpose is simple. Its aim is to reduce landfill waste and extend the life of old cotton in a way that helps both people and our planet.

The Rise of the Discerning Chinese Consumer

China’s robust economic growth over recent decades has fostered a burgeoning middle class with expanding disposable incomes, fueling a substantial increase in domestic consumption of fashion goods. The Chinese fashion market is projected for continued expansion, with revenue reaching approximately US$276.42 billion in 2025 and an anticipated annual growth rate of 6.86% from 2025 to 2029. This expanding consumer base, particularly among younger generations like Gen Z, is characterized by a growing preference for authenticity, wellness, and cultural resonance in their fashion choices, shaping new fashion consumer trends. Consumers are increasingly seeking value-driven and experience-focused purchases, with a significant portion of luxury spending now remaining within China.

Redrawing the Global Apparel Manufacturing Map

Simultaneously, China’s traditional role as a primary manufacturing hub is evolving. Rising labor costs within the country have prompted many international brands to diversify their sourcing strategies, shifting production to other Asian economies such such as Vietnam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Indonesia. This recalibration of the apparel supply chain is not merely a cost-driven decision but also a strategic pivot influenced by geopolitical factors and the pursuit of resilient, agile production networks. While China remains a leading exporter of apparel, its imports in this sector have seen a steady and significant rise, tripling between 2010 and 2024. This surge presents a substantial opportunity for developing Asian countries to expand their exports to China.

Domestic Brands Asserting Influence

Beyond its role as a consumer powerhouse, China is cultivating a vibrant ecosystem of domestic fashion brands and designers. The “Made in China” label is transforming into “Made for China” or “Designed in China,” with local brands gaining strength and international recognition. This is evident in the increasing dominance of domestic brands in China’s top fashion turnover rankings, which grew from 15% in 2011 to over 30% in 2021. Chinese designers are adeptly blending traditional elements with contemporary styles, creating a “new Chinese style” that resonates deeply with local consumers who prioritize cultural connection and authenticity.

Luxury Fashion: A Strategic Focus on China

The shifting landscape also significantly impacts luxury fashion China. Western luxury brands are increasingly focusing on the Chinese fashion market, recognizing its immense potential. Chinese consumers are projected to account for 60% of total global spending growth on luxury items by 2030. During periods of restricted international travel, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, luxury spending that might have occurred abroad was redirected to mainland China, further emphasizing the market’s domestic strength. While a pivot towards a “quality-over-quantity” strategy is observed, with a focus on flagship stores and VIP clients, the emphasis on the discerning fashion consumer trends remains paramount.

Sustainability and Technological Integration Driving Innovation

The evolution of the Chinese fashion market is also deeply intertwined with a strong push towards sustainability and technological integration. There is a notable increase in demand for eco-friendly and ethically produced fashion items, influencing fashion consumer trends. China’s government actively promotes a greener textile and fashion industry through policies outlined in its 14th Five-Year Plan, encouraging the adoption of cleaner production techniques and sustainable practices. Innovations include investment in organic cotton production, waterless dyeing technologies, and closed-loop recycling systems. Furthermore, the industry is embracing advanced technologies like AI, smart textiles, and digital product passports to enhance efficiency, transparency, and innovation across the global fashion industry.

In summary, China’s transformation from a manufacturing powerhouse to a pivotal consumer and import market marks a significant turning point for the global fashion industry. This China’s Fashion Market Evolution underscores the importance of understanding dynamic consumer preferences, adapting to evolving apparel supply chain models, and embracing sustainability and technological advancements to thrive in this new era of global fashion.

USTR’s Unilateral Action Targets Global Trade Practices

Section 301 stands as one of Washington’s most powerful unilateral trade tools, enabling the US to investigate foreign trade practices and impose tariffs or other restrictions. The proposed measures have now entered a structured consultation phase. Stakeholders have until June 22 to request participation in hearings, with written submissions due by July 6. Formal hearings are subsequently scheduled for July 7.

Bangladeshi Industry Reacts to Heightened Tariff Burden

Bangladesh’s inclusion in this list has drawn strong reactions from industry stakeholders, who are openly questioning the logic, consistency, and timing of the USTR’s decision. A key concern is the potential loss of Industry Competitiveness within the vital US market, as the combined impact of existing and proposed duties could significantly escalate overall tariffs. An economist closely associated with the country’s manufacturing and export sector highlighted the severe pressure this could place on an already overstretched industry. If fully implemented, the total tariff exposure on Bangladesh Apparel exports could reach nearly 44 per cent, comprising a 15 per cent general tariff, a 19 per cent reciprocal duty, and the newly proposed 10 per cent surcharge linked to Forced Labor Concerns.

Many industry voices have expressed particular surprise given the recent signing of the US–Bangladesh Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART). Under this agreement, Dhaka had committed to enabling selected textile and apparel products to enter the US market at zero reciprocal tariff. Against this backdrop, exporters assert that the latest USTR proposal appears to contradict the spirit of ongoing bilateral engagement.

Navigating the Complexities of Forced Labor Verification

A leading apparel exporter reflected widespread uncertainty within the sector, stating, “We have been actively engaged with the USTR for a considerable period, and the ART agreement between Bangladesh and the United States has already been concluded. In that context, it is difficult to comprehend the rationale behind imposing an additional 10 per cent tariff.” He further clarified that the US position does not directly allege the existence of forced labour within Bangladesh’s domestic production system. Instead, the concern appears to focus on whether Bangladesh can adequately verify that imported raw materials from other countries are free from Forced Labor Concerns risks. Such verification, in practical terms, is extremely complex and often beyond the realistic capacity of any single importing country, the individual claimed.

Broader Implications for Global Trade Standards

Meanwhile, another senior industry player warned that the proposal reflects a broader and increasingly concerning trend in Global Trade Policy. In this trend, tariff instruments are being used to enforce regulatory expectations that have not been collectively negotiated through multilateral frameworks. While acknowledging that the elimination of forced labour remains a universally shared ethical objective, he cautioned that tying market access to a single country-driven compliance model risks undermining the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) principle and further fragmenting the global trading system.

Calls for Collaborative Solutions Amidst Economic Strain

The timing of the proposal has added further strain for the Bangladesh Apparel industry, which is already navigating a challenging external environment. This includes a global demand slowdown, economic uncertainty, and rising competition from alternative sourcing hubs. Reports indicate that Bangladesh’s export earnings declined by approximately 7.07 per cent year-on-year in May, falling to around $4 billion from $4.73 billion recorded during the same period last year. Against this already fragile trade landscape, exporters fear that any additional tariff burden could significantly erode Industry Competitiveness in its second-largest export market. Furthermore, this also raises questions on the future of US Tariffs Bangladesh Apparel trade relations.

One stakeholder noted that if the United States’ genuine objective is to strengthen labour standards and eliminate exploitative practices, then punitive US Trade Tariffs may prove counterproductive. Instead, he argued, a more effective approach would involve technical assistance, capacity-building initiatives, and targeted support mechanisms for workers and compliance systems. This approach could better address the complex issue of Forced Labor Concerns without jeopardizing vital Industry Competitiveness.

Amidst these pressures, the urgent pursuit of a competitive edge has become paramount for Turkish exporters. For those in the apparel and textiles sector, this has translated into exploring niche positioning through innovative design, specialized markets, advanced production techniques, and new materials that can command a premium in international markets.

Hemp Emerges as a Strategic Answer

Across Turkey’s textile industry, industrial hemp fabrics are rapidly emerging as a compelling solution. Manufacturers are moving beyond mere research, actively integrating hemp fabrics and hemp-cotton blends into their commercial offerings. They are strategically positioning themselves to capture growing demand from European and North American buyers. This transformative Turkish Textile Hemp Shift was prominently showcased at Texhibition Istanbul earlier this year. The exhibition’s Innovation Hub, specifically dedicated to technological developments in textiles, featured a strong focus on hemp and its applications, with many products already in commercial production rather than concept displays.

Arzu Kaprol, a renowned Turkish fashion designer who curated the Innovation Hub, noted a dramatic shift in the industry’s focus on hemp in recent years. She underscored its superior sustainability when compared to cotton in terms of production. Kaprol also highlighted that hemp is softer than linen, slightly firmer than cotton, and possesses a variable capacity to absorb humidity. She further pointed to younger consumers as key drivers for alternative natural fibers, noting their increasing concern for sustainable and natural materials.

Global Interest Fuels Turkish Innovation

Global brands, including Patagonia, Levi Strauss & Co., Outerknown, and Tentree, have expanded or experimented with hemp-based collections in recent years, recognizing its environmental benefits over more resource-intensive fibers. While China remains dominant in hemp textile manufacturing and France leads Europe in cultivation, Turkey is carving out a distinct strategy. Rather than competing solely on agricultural scale, Turkish exporters are leveraging the nation’s sophisticated textile and apparel manufacturing infrastructure to become a preferred near-shore supplier of hemp garments for European fashion brands. This concerted effort increasingly extends across the entire value chain, encompassing farming, spinning, weaving, and blending technologies. Manufacturers are actively developing hemp-organic cotton combinations designed to improve softness without sacrificing durability or crucial sustainability credentials.

Leading this push is Egedeniz Textile, one of Turkey’s longest-established sustainable production companies and the country’s first organic-certified textile manufacturer. Egedeniz has invested directly in hemp cultivation, promoting Turkish-grown hemp as an integral part of a vertically integrated sustainability strategy. Mehmet Ünsal, director of Egedeniz Group, noted increasing interest from brands in traceable, low-impact raw materials, stating that hemp is currently the “rising star.” He emphasized the importance of continuity for farmers and highlighted that Egedeniz has achieved good quality in local hemp cultivation, continuously improving efficiency. Their hemp is gaining traction in various categories, including woven fabrics for T-shirts, underwear, sweatshirts, women’s dresses, casual wear, activewear, and home textiles. Even the waste from hemp is in demand from European companies due to its inherent sustainable properties.

Ünsal further elaborated on hemp’s qualities for longevity, sustainability, and regenerative farming. He cited an example where hemp planted in a U-shape around cotton acted as a natural repellent against red spiders, a common pest for cotton crops. This observation demonstrated how different crops, when planted together, can create significant value and aid the ecosystem’s balance without the need for additional labor, pesticides, or chemicals.

Ahmet Şişman, chairman of the Istanbul Textile and Raw Materials Exporters’ Association (İTHİB), affirmed that hemp is not a new material for the textile industry, having been utilized in Anatolia for centuries. He underscored its significant potential due to its durability, longevity, and versatility, and its resurgence as sustainable production gains global importance. Şişman highlighted the clear increase in global brands’ interest in alternative and environmentally friendly raw materials, driven by their sustainability-focused transformation efforts and regulations introduced under the European Union’s Green Deal. While currently used in technical textiles, upholstery fabrics, and selected apparel, advancements in processing technologies are expected to broaden its range of applications significantly.

Denim Sector Paves the Way

The denim sector has become one of the most active areas of innovation, with several Turkish companies now integrating hemp into their denim collections. Prominent examples include Çalık Denim, Adasya Denim, and Bossa. These initiatives aim to combine sustainability benefits such as reduced water consumption and agricultural inputs with the performance characteristics, appearance, comfort, and durability demanded by mainstream consumers. Collaborations, like Bossa’s participation in international hemp-denim innovation projects with Fashion for Good and technology partners, are exploring advanced cottonized-hemp processing techniques designed to increase hemp content in denim without sacrificing comfort. These developments are propelling hemp beyond niche collections towards commercially viable apparel manufacturing.

A Broader Strategic Transformation

This growing interest in hemp signifies a profound structural shift within Turkey’s textile industry. For decades, manufacturers competed heavily on price and production efficiency. However, the conversation is now increasingly revolving around sustainability, traceability, recycled materials, organic certification, and near-shoring advantages. Manufacturers recognize that long-term competitiveness will depend less on being the cheapest supplier and more on their ability to deliver lower-carbon products through transparent and resilient supply chains. Hemp naturally aligns with this long-term strategy.

However, challenges persist. Global brands continue to raise questions about the scalability of hemp production and its pricing, which remains significantly higher than many conventional textile options, particularly polyester blends. Arzu Kaprol acknowledged this irony, stating that organic materials often appear more expensive due to widespread societal reliance on synthetic materials. She argued that the industry’s relationship with clothing should extend beyond cost alone, emphasizing the body’s connection with biomaterials and what touches our skin.

Despite the enthusiasm, hemp currently represents only a small fraction of Turkey’s overall textile and apparel exports. Mehmet Ünsal of Egedeniz Group pointed out that while global brands seek suppliers who can offer full vertical integration from farm to finished fabric, a stronger commitment from them is crucial to assure farmers and foster the necessary continuity for sustainable production.

Mustafa Gültepe, chairman of the Türkiye Exporters Assembly (TİM), reiterated the point that Turkish exporters increasingly need to position themselves as strategic solution partners rather than mere manufacturers. This shift supports broader economic goals: protecting employment, generating foreign currency earnings, and maintaining the competitiveness of a vital export sector that generated approximately $26 billion in 2025. Recent figures indicate signs of resilience, with Turkey’s apparel exports reaching approximately $6.61 billion during the first five months of 2026, stabilizing despite ongoing challenges compared to roughly $6.7 billion during the same period a year earlier.

The textile industry in Turkey has a long history of adaptability. Whether through innovations in denim, organic cotton, recycled fibers, or near-shoring strategies, Turkish manufacturers have repeatedly sought new ways to remain relevant in changing global markets. The Turkish Textile Hemp Shift represents the latest chapter in this ongoing story, transforming hemp from a mere sustainability trend into a strategic investment for the future.

The report is Textile Exchange’s second in a multi-year series of fibre LCAs, following a cotton study published in March. The organisation said the polyester research addresses long-standing limitations in available datasets particularly where geography and production pathways have been underrepresented or assessed inconsistently.

A key addition is what Textile Exchange describes as the first publicly available dataset covering the environmental impacts of virgin polyethylene terephthalate (PET) production in Southeast Asia. The region produces more than half of the world’s virgin PET, yet has been poorly reflected in public LCA data. By including Southeast Asian production, the report aims to reduce reliance on outdated or regionally mismatched proxies that can distort modelling and decision-making.

Beth Jensen, chief impact officer at Textile Exchange, said the updated dataset is intended to strengthen how the sector evaluates polyester’s footprint and prioritises reductions. “This LCA study marks a significant update to existing polyester LCA data and advances our understanding of the impacts of its production for the fashion, textile, and apparel industry. By addressing known data gaps across both virgin and recycled polyester, and by identifying major hotspot impact areas, these findings create a stronger foundation for making informed decisions that support the shift toward preferred production systems.”

The polyester LCA study uses a cradle-to-gate scope, assessing impacts from raw-material extraction through to fibre formation. It evaluates virgin polyester production in Southeast Asia and recycled polyester systems in China, Europe and the United States. The main report focuses on seven headline impact categories ranging from climate change and acidification to freshwater ecotoxicity and water scarcity while also analysing all 16 indicators recommended in the European Commission Environmental Footprint 3.1 reference package.

Textile Exchange cautioned that LCA results are highly sensitive to methodological assumptions and boundaries. As a result, it reiterated that comparisons should not be made between different LCA studies or even between datasets within the same study, such as comparing regions or production systems directly.

Beyond environmental metrics, the report applies what the organisation calls an “LCA+” lens by including an assessment of human rights impacts associated with polyester supply chains—an addition that reflects increasing expectations under Human Rights Due Diligence frameworks.

On the environmental side, the report identifies distinct “hotspots” depending on how polyester is produced. For virgin polyester, the dominant drivers are upstream petrochemicals, particularly monoethylene glycol (MEG), purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and dimethyl terephthalate (DMT), as well as the energy mix used for electricity and heat. For thermomechanical recycling, electricity demand and feedstock logistics especially long-distance transport of waste emerged as major contributors across multiple impact categories. For chemical recycling, the largest burdens were tied to energy consumption and the use of process chemicals such as solvents, including methanol.

Adam Gardiner, recycled lead at Textile Exchange, said the study is meant to help the industry separate momentum from measurable performance as textile-to-textile recycling investment accelerates. “There is significant industry investment and momentum behind the development of new technologies for textile-to-textile recycling. This LCA study provides both brands and recyclers with credible and up-to-date data on such systems, while identifying opportunities to reduce their impact.”

He added that the social dimension of recycling supply chains is often overlooked. “Traditionally, recycled production systems within the textile industry have focused primarily on the recycling plant itself. By taking an “LCA+” approach, this study enables a greater understanding of the significant social impact and vast network that exists before the recycler. To design a successful lower impact recycling system, it needs to protect and support the livelihoods of all people throughout the value chain.”

The human rights assessment flags potential harms ranging from unsafe working conditions and labour rights violations to gender-based violence and community impacts linked to oil and gas extraction, accidental spills and pollution. It also notes that waste collection and sorting can be informal and weakly regulated, creating risks in both bottle-to-fibre and textile-to-textile supply chains while emphasising that textile-to-textile pathways could play a meaningful role in addressing the global textile waste crisis if built with safeguards.

Textile Exchange said the data will be submitted to industry databases to increase usability, primarily as proxy data when source-specific datasets are unavailable. The organisation also pointed readers to its earlier guidance paper, Ensuring Integrity in the Use of Life Cycle Assessment Data, which outlines best practice for applying LCA information in corporate impact modelling and progress tracking.

The agreements were a key outcome of a recent official visit to Poland by Nozimjon Kholmurodov, Director of Uzbekistan’s Agency for the Development of Light Industry under the Cabinet of Ministers. This diplomatic engagement underscores the strategic importance both countries place on fostering direct commercial links and facilitating market access.

Strategic Discussions Pave Way for Enhanced Poland Cooperation

During the visit, Uzbek officials engaged in productive discussions with leading Polish business entities, including representatives from the Polish-Asian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the ZPPM Lewiatan Confederation, a prominent organization in Poland’s business landscape. The talks primarily focused on practical cooperation within the light industry sector. A central objective was to forge direct connections between Uzbek producers and Polish businesses, thereby creating tangible opportunities for Uzbek companies to successfully enter the Polish market. This Uzbekistan Poland Textile Deal is anticipated to yield substantial benefits for both economies.

Initiatives for Market Integration and Expertise Exchange

A critical aspect of the discussions involved developing mechanisms to support export-oriented Uzbekistan textile manufacturers. The Polish-Asian Chamber of Commerce and Industry expressed readiness to assist in compiling a comprehensive database of these producers. Furthermore, the dialogue encompassed strategies for collaboration with various Polish entities, including buyers, distributors, major retail chains, international brands, and diverse e-commerce platforms.

Particular emphasis was placed on initiatives designed to help Uzbek producers align their products with the stringent requirements of the European market. Plans include the organization of specialized training programs, educational seminars, and consulting services. Facilitating exchanges of expertise between Uzbek and Polish companies, with the dedicated support of ZPPM Lewiatan, was also a key point of discussion, aiming to enhance product quality and market readiness across the textile industry.

The signing of separate memorandums with both ZPPM Lewiatan and the Polish-Asian Chamber of Commerce and Industry establishes a robust institutional framework. This framework is set to guide the expansion of Poland cooperation in the textile and light industry, reinforce business partnerships, and support the implementation of joint initiatives between enterprises from both countries. Both sides have articulated their ongoing commitment to collaboratively define concrete areas of cooperation and to strengthen commercial linkages between Uzbek manufacturers and Polish businesses, further solidifying the Uzbekistan Poland Textile Deal.

Lawmakers Call for Urgent Action on Illegal Trade Practices

A bipartisan collective of House lawmakers addressed DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, stating, “Unfortunately, for decades, the American textile industry has suffered greatly from customs fraud and abuse by foreign competitors and organized crime.” The letter further emphasized the critical need for effective trade policy enforcement, noting, “Our trade policies and tariff structures are only as effective as their enforcement. As you begin your role as Secretary, we urge you to review and ensure the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is properly oriented and outfitted to fully enforce our customs laws.” The  letter, spearheaded by House Textile Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. David Rouzer (R-NC) and Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), garnered support from 14 additional House members.

Comprehensive Strategy for Textile Customs Enforcement

The congressional group additionally called upon DHS to “develop and institute a comprehensive textile enforcement program.” This program, as outlined, should include several key measures:

• Revoking trade privileges for offenders.
• Publicly listing and implementing stronger penalties for repeat perpetrators.
• Increasing audits, lab testing, and verification processes for free trade agreement claims.
• Ensuring the timely publication of enforcement statistics.

NCTO President and CEO Kim Glas expressed profound gratitude for the congressional initiative. “I sincerely thank Congressman Espaillat and Congressman Rouzer for leading these efforts and strongly commend the bipartisan group of lawmakers for taking the lead in calling on Secretary Mullin and his agency to take urgent action to address a wide range of illegal trade practices that are severely impacting the U.S. textile and apparel industry,” Glas stated.

Glas highlighted the broader implications of these illicit activities. “This letter sends a powerful message that customs fraud, illegal transshipment, and tariff evasion are rampant and must be stopped. These illegal trade practices cost American jobs, undermine legitimate manufacturers, weaken our trade agreements, and deprive the U.S. Treasury of billions of dollars in revenue,” she affirmed. The NCTO leader concluded by expressing the industry’s readiness to collaborate. “The industry looks forward to working with Congress, DHS, and CBP to strengthen customs enforcement efforts and ensure a level playing field for U.S. textile manufacturers and workers.” This focused push for robust textile customs enforcement is vital for the future health of the American textile sector.