Ethiopia’s textile and garment industry witnessing rapid growth, as a number of domestic and multinational firms are being engaged in the production of textiles and apparel for domestic and global markets. In the path to industrialize Ethiopia, the sector is given a prominent position in boosting exports, creating job opportunities, and as a model to other sectors as well. There are many events, fashion shows, and exhibitions each year in the capital city Addis Ababa, this includes the Apparel Sourcing Trade Show where they also have fashion shows through the AFRICA SOURCING AND FASHION WEEK 2024
Model on the runway showcasing Made In Africa (Photo ASFW )
The Apparel Sourcing Trade Show is a premier event on an international scale, focusing on the procurement of clothing items and fashion accessories. "Apparel Sourcing" symbolizes the procurement process, in this case of apparel. It is held annually at the prestigious Congress Center in the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, which is recognized worldwide as a significant hub for the fashion industry. The trade show is organized by Messe Frankfurt, Inc., a subsidiary of Messe Frankfurt, one of the leading trade fair organizers in the world.
The Apparel Sourcing Trade Show offers an extensive range of topics, covering men's, women's, and children's fashion as well as fashion accessories. The exhibited products and services are diverse, ranging from shirts, designer fashion, and coats to underwear, suits, swimwear, sportswear, and knitwear. Accessories such as shoes, socks, bags, leather goods, gloves, scarves, hats, and caps are also presented.
The Apparel Sourcing Trade Show is a premier event on an international scale, focusing on the procurement of clothing items and fashion accessories
The trade show serves as a platform for manufacturers from all over the world, who stand out due to their quality, innovative spirit, and competitive pricing. The exhibitors come from various sectors, mainly from the fashion and textile industry, accessory manufacturing, and fashion retail. The main visitors to the trade show are buyers, fashion retailers, and designers who want to inform themselves about the latest trends and innovations in the fashion industry and get to know potential suppliers.
Fair facts
The Apparel Sourcing Trade Show is a premier event on an international scale, focusing on the procurement of clothing items and fashion accessories
The Apparel Sourcing Addis Ababa held concurrently with Texworld Addis Ababa and Texprocess Addis Ababa, to create a one-stop sourcing synery for the newly emerging manufacturing hub in East Africa. With benefit from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) which gives certain countries in sub-Saharan Africa duty-free access to the US market. Since 2013, there has been rising interest in not just Ethiopia but also other East African countries as potential sourcing destinations for apparel textiles.
The Apparel Sourcing Trade Show is part of a series of specialist trade fairs for clothing and fashion, organized by Messe Frankfurt, Inc. at various locations worldwide. In short, the Apparel Sourcing Trade Show is a must in the calendar of every fashion professional. The venue, the Congress Center in the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, is not only known for its proximity to the fashion industry but also impresses with its excellent transport connections and impressive infrastructure, which make visiting the trade show a unique experience.
Pioneering Sustainable Manufacturing in Africa: A Glimpse into the Future
Workers inside a factory in Ethiopia (Photo Internet)
Africa is embarking on a transformative journey in the world of sustainable manufacturing, forging a path that aligns economic growth with environmental stewardship. This is particularly evident in the textile and garment sector, where evolution prioritizes innovation, eco-conscious practices, and economic viability.
The continent‘s textile and garment production has witnessed a steady rise, contributing significantly to its economic landscape. The International Trade Centre (ITC) reports that in 2018, East Africa‘s textile and apparel exports alone reached an im- impressive $982 million. This underscores the region‘s standing as a key player in the global fashion market.
As the world pivots towards sustainability, Africa has an opportunity not just to participate but to lead in the realm of sustainable manufacturing. The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) notes a growing commitment in East Africa to sustainable practices in the leather industry, with countries like Kenya and Ethiopia at the forefront. This signals a shift towards ethical and environmentally conscious production methods.
According to McKinsey reports, the global fashion industry produces about 2.1 billion tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually. Africa‘s commitment to sustainability can significantly impact these figures. By 2025, the global sustainable fashion market is expected to reach $9.81 billion, according to Statista. Sustainable manufacturing presents Africa with a chance to redefine its global image and contribute to a more conscious and ethical fashion industry.
AFRICA SOURCING AND FASHION WEEK 2024
In its milestone 10th year, Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) continues to be the heartbeat of Africa‘s textile and fashion evolution. Celebrating a decade of innovation and progress, ASFW 2024 anticipates the annual convergence of over 7000 industry enthusiasts and stakeholders, ready to make a lasting impact on the African textile and fashion landscape. Registration here
Models on the runway showcasing Made In Africa (Photo ASFW )
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