Stage set for sustainable fibres at Yarn Expo Autumn 2023

Leading the globe with eco-fibre revenue of USD 14.9 billion in 2022, Asia-Pacific (APAC) is expected to continue its dominance with a 9.2% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2023 to 2030[2]. Favourable government policies and a consumer shift towards bio-based fibre alternatives such as regenerated, organic cotton, hemp, and more are key factors contributing to this trend. Further development of environmentally friendly materials with antimicrobial, hypoallergenic, insulating, UV resistant, highly breathable, and absorbent properties is also expected to drive growth.

As Asia’s largest yarn and fibre trade fair, Yarn Expo Autumn will showcase the most innovative eco-friendly products on the market. Throughout the fair’s seven major zones, specifically Cotton Yarn, Chemical Fibre, Fancy Yarn, Linen & Ramie Yarn, Wool Yarn, Cashmere Yarn and Overseas Yarn, fairgoers can network and gain market insights regarding the latest organic, regenerated and recycled fibres. Additionally, buyers can source from leading international and domestic exhibitors, allowing them to cater to the ever-growing demand for sustainable products. Key exhibitors include:

Arkema (France) – the Parisian company joins forces with spinning and fabric manufacturers to bring 100% bio-based yarns and fibres to the international market. One of its high-performance bio-based renewable solutions, Rilsan PA11, is derived from the castor plant, which grows on barren land and does not compete with human food crops. Rilsan PA11’s carbon footprint is 40% lower than petroleum-based traditional nylon materials PA6 and PA66.

Everest Textile (Taiwan) – publicly listed since 1995, this leading sustainable enterprise’s products and production processes are bluesign-certified. As a vertically integrated manufacturer, Everest Textile specialises in yarn texturising, weaving, knitting, dyeing, post-finishing, and garment production. At the fair, the company will showcase its wide array of textured yarns.

The Movement China Ltd (the Netherlands) – headquartered in Amsterdam, the company will bring its innovative Polylana fibre to Yarn Expo. This fibre has a softness similar to synthetic wool, but has a significantly lower environmental impact than acrylic. In addition to being traceable and 100% recyclable, the versatile Polylana fibre can be presented in both round and flat cross sections.

The fair’s regular line-up of sustainable exhibitors has been a major drawcard for visitors from China, Asia, and around the world. Speaking at the 2023 spring edition, Ms Li Qian, Head of Marketing & Communication China, Marketing China, Rieter (China) Textile Instruments Co Ltd, said: “Yarn Expo is the only textile fair that we join, and the most influential for yarn. At this edition there have been many visitors, and more international buyers. As a Swiss company, this is good for our global influence. This year we are promoting the use of recycled and green fibres, such as lyocell, for our downstream partners, as our machines can produce yarns from these materials. Sustainability has gained traction in China and we are focused on meeting the targets.”

Yarn Expo Autumn will be held concurrently with Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition, CHIC, and PH Value. The four fairs will bring the fibre and yarn, apparel fabrics and accessories, and knitted garments industries together under one roof, with the resultant synergy allowing exhibitors and buyers to maximise their business opportunities.

Yarn Expo Autumn is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT. For more details, please visit www.yarn-expo-autumn.com.