The 2010 China Textile Innovation Conference concluded, and demand and innovation emerged as the most significant trends in the apparel industry. In response, the China Garment Reporter interviewed Sun Ruizhe, Vice Chairman of the China Textile Industry Association, to gain insights into the future of the sector.
Q: What role do you think the "rich people" target outlined in the "Twelfth Five-Year Plan" will play for the apparel industry?
Sun Ruizhe: According to data, China's capital formation rate rose from around 32% in the early 1980s to 46.8% in 2009, while the final consumption rate dropped from about 67% to 48.6%. This imbalance between consumption and income distribution is a key issue. The proportion of residents' income in national income remains low, which hinders consumer demand growth. For example, in 2008, urban residents spent 1,166 yuan on clothing, while rural residents spent only 212 yuan. By 2009, these figures increased to 1,284 yuan and 232 yuan respectively, showing a five-and-a-half times gap. The proposed “rich people†goal aims to boost overall consumption and balance urban-rural spending power, benefiting the textile and apparel sectors.
The textile and apparel industry is closely tied to people’s daily lives. It is not only an industry with strong international competitiveness but also a vital driver for improving quality of life and promoting sustainable living. Looking ahead, the sector should become a key component of strategic emerging industries and a major force in the fashion industry.
Q: How important is domestic demand in driving apparel development?
Sun Ruizhe: Domestic demand is a crucial pillar for economic growth. Developed countries like the U.S. and developing nations like India have domestic demand exceeding 92% and 88%, respectively, compared to China’s 72.8% in 2008. As the economy develops, the share of domestic demand must increase. Over the past two years, sales by large textile and garment enterprises in the domestic market have steadily risen, reaching nearly 82% this year.
Q: How should we understand demand-driven industrial innovation capacity building?
Sun Ruizhe: To promote a demand-driven growth model at the industry level, four key areas must be prioritized: technology, talent, brand, and sustainable development. First, accelerating technological development and adopting green, low-carbon technologies is essential. Second, human resources quality, rather than quantity, is now the key to achieving a strategic breakthrough from a "large textile country" to a "strong textile country." Third, brand strategy must evolve from price competition to value-based competition. Finally, sustainable development requires rational market distribution and investment in energy efficiency and new technologies.
Q: What is the ultimate goal of industrial innovation?
Sun Ruizhe: The ultimate aim is to enhance industry competitiveness, achieve a more rational industrial structure, and gain control over global value chains. Through standards and fashion discourse, the industry can secure both hard and soft power in the global market.
In addition, the rise of e-commerce has transformed consumer behavior. Online shopping has become a major channel for apparel purchases, especially among younger consumers. With 420 million internet users in China, the potential for e-commerce growth is immense. Brands are adapting by expanding online presence, offering personalized experiences, and leveraging digital platforms to reach broader audiences.
As China continues to develop, the textile and apparel industry is poised for significant growth, driven by rising consumer demand, technological innovation, and a growing middle class. The future looks promising, with opportunities for both domestic and global players.
Best Quality Loose Wholesale Amethyst,natural Calibrated Amethyst Loose Gemstones,Amethyst Faceted Loose Gemstone
Guangzhou Qinfa Crafts Company , https://www.qinfastone.com