From January to July this year, Uzbekistan exported over $1.7bn worth of textiles to 85 countries, with plans to triple this figure to $6.5bn by 2026, as highlighted during ITMF Annual Conference and the IAF World Fashion Convention in Samarkand.
The ITMF Annual Conference and the IAF World Fashion Convention held in Samarkand, highlighted the transformative potential of Uzbekistan's textile and apparel industry. The event united prominent Uzbek textile manufacturers, international investors, and representatives from various public and regulatory bodies to explore the sector's future.
Uzbekistan's textile industry has made significant progress thanks to recent reforms and modernization efforts. The establishment of cotton-textile clusters in 2017 and the removal of the cotton boycott in 2022 were key milestones, bringing the industry in line with global standards. Uzbekistan's inclusion in the Better Cotton Initiative and Better Work program is boosting its international textile exports.
Government support has been instrumental in attracting international investment. Kihak Sung, Chairman of Youngone Corporation, shared his company's success in Uzbekistan, highlighting an investment of $55mn and the creation of over 5,000 jobs. Youngone’s expansion aims to replicate its success from Bangladesh in Uzbekistan’s textile sector.
Uzbekistan’s growing prominence in the textile world is also recognized by the international community. Karim Shafei, International Partner at Gherzi Textil Organisation, emphasized Uzbekistan’s potential to disrupt the global textile industry. Gherzi’s report, Is Uzbekistan the Next Textile Giant?, underscores the country’s competitive labor costs, strategic location, and supportive investment environment.
Mirmukhsin Sultanov, Acting Chairman of Uztextileprom, expressed pride in hosting the 2024 conference, showcasing Uzbekistan’s advancements and reinforcing its historical role in textile trade. Sultanov highlighted the country’s ambitious goal of reaching a $10bn export target by 2030 and its commitment to technology, innovation, and sustainability.
The ITMF Annual Conference and IAF Fashion Convention 2024, hosted in Samarkand under the theme "Innovation, Cooperation, and Regulation — Drivers of the Textile and Apparel Industry," brought together more than 500 industry experts. The event explored the future of textiles, showcased the latest innovations, and emphasized the growth of international collaborations.
The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) is a global trade association representing textile manufacturers, promoting communication and collaboration to support industry growth and sustainability.
The International Apparel Federation (IAF) is the leading global association for the apparel industry, fostering development through international dialogue and cooperation.
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