The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has entered into a groundbreaking tripartite agreement with global apparel manufacturer Crystal International Group Limited and the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA). This collaboration is set to integrate cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) throughout the textile manufacturing process. Central to this initiative is the development of Textile-GPT, an industry-specific large language model designed to enhance intelligent design, optimize production workflows, streamline supply chain management, automate quality inspections, and promote innovation in smart wearable technology.
As part of the partnership, the three organizations will establish a Textile AI Innovation Hub, fostering the adoption of AI-as-a-Service (AIaaS) and nurturing a new generation of talent at the intersection of AI and textiles. This collaboration is expected to significantly advance global AI integration within the textile sector, support the modernization of manufacturing processes through technological innovations, and ultimately realize the vision of smart manufacturing. These efforts will further position Hong Kong as a leader in developing high-quality productive forces, enhancing the city’s competitiveness on the global stage.
From Textile Hub to Industrial AI Implementation
With AI technology rapidly advancing, large language model-powered AI agents are becoming pivotal in driving industrial transformation. The partnership between HKUST, Crystal Group, and HKRITA aims to harness the combined strengths of industry, academia, and research and development to accelerate the upgrading and transformation of the textile industry. This collaboration will enhance industrial automation and promote sustainable practices across the $1.5 trillion global textile market, focusing on three primary areas:
- Development of Industry-Specific Large Language Models: By leveraging HKUST’s AI expertise, HKRITA’s industry insights, and Crystal Group’s manufacturing data, the collaborators will create a large language model tailored to the textile industry. This initiative will establish knowledge graphs encompassing materials science, process efficiency, and market intelligence, facilitating data-driven decision-making throughout the sector.
- AI Agents for Textile Applications:Â The use of multimodal large language models will expedite the design of innovative fiber materials and functional textiles, optimize production processes, streamline supply chain management, and improve quality inspection capabilities.
- Smart Wearables and Sustainable Innovation:Â The partnership will explore the application of large language models in smart apparel design, personalized consumer demand analysis, and virtual fitting. Additionally, they aim to develop AI-driven green manufacturing practices and circular economy solutions.
Comprehensive Development: Ecosystem for Labs, Industry, and Talent
To support this collaboration, HKUST, Crystal Group, and HKRITA will work together to create the Textile AI Innovation Hub, designed to foster research and development and test large model intelligence. The partnership will also investigate the deployment of these technologies across Crystal Group’s global production facilities, as well as develop Textile AIaaS solutions that provide standardized tools and technical support to the industry, encouraging growth for textile startups. The partners will organize research projects, industry training, and international forums to cultivate talent in “AI + Textiles,” ensuring that the workforce is equipped for the AI-driven future.
Prof. Tim Cheng, HKUST’s Vice-President for Research and Development, commented, “HKUST is proud to lead this collaboration, which is a concrete step in cultivating the new quality productive forces central to Hong Kong’s and the nation’s future economic strategy. Developing the textile-specific LLM, establishing the AI Innovation Hub, and fostering cross-disciplinary talent are precisely the kinds of innovation-driven upgrades needed to transition from traditional manufacturing to high-tech, sustainable production. This is how we translate policy vision into industrial reality and global competitiveness.”
Andrew Lo, Chief Executive Officer of Crystal International Group Limited, stated, “Artificial intelligence is key to the future of manufacturing. We’re excited to work with HKUST and HKRITA to extend our digital transformation and co-develop a scalable, sustainable smart manufacturing model that drives new energy into the industry.”
Mr. Jake Koh, Chief Executive Officer of The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel, added, “Our vision goes beyond technology. It’s about positioning Hong Kong as a hub for industrial AI innovation. Hong Kong knows how to navigate the textile world, and now, it is ready to grow through AI.”
