Southeast Asia is a region with a rich cultural heritage and a rapidly growing consumer market. In recent years, Southeast Asia has vigorously developed the textile industry and occupied a huge share of the textile industry's exports.
In Southeast Asia, the textile and apparel market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.68% during 2021-2026, reaching a total of $124.5 million by 2026.
Countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia emerging as major textile exporters. For years, the industry has relied on low labor costs to compete in the global market. Although real wages have increased in most countries, working conditions remain challenging, including long and stressful working hours, poor occupational health and safety, and violations of fundamental rights at work.
Along with the slowdown in demand from vital US, UK, and EU Vietnamese markets, the textile product exports of Southeast Asian countries have also been greatly affected; the textile and garment industry needs to diversify their textile and apparel industry to move beyond low-cost manufacturing.
Therefore, Southeast Asian countries have also begun to seek efforts to increase the added value of clothing products, such as technical textiles, eco-friendly textiles, and innovation in design.
Top practices to adopt strategic approaches to achieve high-valued clothing product:
Research and Understand Local Preferences:
Before diving into production, thorough market research is essential. Understanding the local fashion trends, cultural preferences, and consumer behavior will help in tailoring products that resonate with the target audience.
Embrace Sustainable Practices:
In an era where sustainability is a key consideration for consumers, integrating eco-friendly practices in apparel production is crucial. Utilize sustainable materials, implement ethical manufacturing processes, and communicate these efforts transparently to appeal to conscious consumers.
Invest in Technology and Innovation:
Incorporating cutting-edge technology into the production process can enhance efficiency and product quality. Automation, data analytics, and digital manufacturing can streamline operations, reduce costs, and enable the creation of unique, high-value products.
Introducing the "ST-Thinkor," an intelligent fabric inspection system by SUNTECH Textile Machinery, also known as the AI Automated Visual Inspection System. This cutting-edge technology has garnered widespread adoption across diverse industries, including fabric production, garment manufacturing, home textile production, electric and industrial glass fiber production, automotive interior and airbag manufacturing, and non-woven fabric production, among others. The system's standout feature lies in its remarkable versatility, seamlessly integrating with various machinery types such as fabric looms, glass fiber looms, fabric inspection machines, laminating machines, shrinkage machines, and non-woven machines.
In contrast to the conventional manual inspection method, which achieves a maximum defect detection rate of 90%, the AI Inspection System achieves an impressive 95% defect detection rate with the added benefit of real-time 24-hour monitoring capability. This system ensures that every inch of the fabric undergoes thorough inspection, leaving no room for oversight. Its advanced capabilities enable it to identify and flag defects more effectively, contributing to enhanced quality control throughout the production process.
Establish Strong Supply Chain Networks:
Building a robust supply chain is critical for timely and cost-effective production. Establish partnerships with reliable suppliers, logistics providers, and manufacturers to ensure a smooth flow of materials and finished products. For Southeast countries, with natural geographical advantages, strengthening the establishment of supply chain partnerships in the apparel industry will better help local industries compete in the world market.
Build Impact-able Local Brand
Leverage the rich cultural diversity of Southeast Asia by collaborating with local artisans and designers. This not only adds a unique touch to the products but also supports local talent, fostering a sense of community and authenticity.
Develop a compelling brand narrative that aligns with the aspirations and values of the target market. Effective marketing campaigns, storytelling, and branding efforts can elevate the perceived value of your apparel products.
Take Advantages of FTAs and regulations.
The FTA gives tariffs reduction or elimination and access to some key markets will improve the competitive of Southeast Country in textile industry.
Allows technical assistance from the developed countries, will enhancing their productivity in textile production.
Southeast Government‘s policies, including incentives, regulations, and support for research and development, can also significantly influence the textile industry's growth.
Producing high-value-added apparel products in Southeast Asia's developing countries requires a strategic blend of cultural sensitivity, sustainability, innovation, and a deep understanding of market dynamics. By embracing these principles, businesses can not only meet the demands of the local consumer base but also position themselves as leaders in the global fashion market.
SUNTECH Textile Machinery stands at the forefront of the textile industry's technological revolution, infusing innovation into the field and driving its transformation. Through relentless research, development, and technological advancements over 50 years, SUNTECH established the range of products encompasses almost all fabric types, including but not limited to fabric cutting machine, fabric inspection machine, automatic packaging machine, motorized beam trolley, and beam storage. SUNTECH Textile Machinery continues to deliver remarkable achievements to the global textile sector.