Narteks, a leading cotton yarn supplier in Türkiye, has relied on Rieter’s ring- and compact-spinning systems for years. To respond faster to changing yarn demands and raw materials, Narteks has added a rotor spinning line equipped with Rieter preparation machines. In a challenging market environment, flexibility and low conversion costs are key. Labor costs are rising and skilled operators are scarce, while customers demand stable quality across different yarn counts, blends and recycled fibers. Frequent changeovers can increase downtime, waste and quality risk. Narteks needed machines that provide a high level of automation, support fast adjustments and can serve all requirements of the market.

High productivity

Narteks selected Rieter’s preparation machines for its rotor spinning line: the blowroom line VARIOline (including the precision blender A 81), the card C 80 with highest productivity and the double-head draw frame RSB-D 26 which stands out due to its limited space requirements. The machines are characterized by high productivity and low energy consumption. This creates a robust preparation process as the basis for stable, cost-efficient rotor spinning.

Fast changes, low conversion costs

With Rieter’s solution, Narteks benefits from clear advantages in daily operation. The new Rieter fiber and spinning preparation provides high flexibility across various fiber blends, recycled materials and yarn counts, enabling fast responses to changing market requirements. This agility ensures faster changes, smoother operations and consistently low conversion costs. A high level of automation reduces manual intervention and supports consistent operation even when experienced personnel are scarce.

This is confirmed by Yilmaz Can, Mill Manager at Narteks said, “Rieter’s preparation machines make our rotor line profitable even in a market with low yarn prices. We can change raw materials and yarn counts quickly, allowing us to react fast to customer demands. The high level of automation, strong productivity and low energy consumption contribute to significantly lower conversion costs.”

Optimized space requirements

Optimized energy consumption and reduced waste help lower conversion costs, while the compact concept with double-head draw frames save valuable floor space. The high productivity of the card C 80 additionally saves space as a smaller number of cards is needed for the same output. Stable sliver quality supports smooth downstream rotor spinning, helping Narteks maintain high output and meet demanding customer expectations.

Ever walked into a Dhaka factory and noticed the earthy scent of jute mixing with the crisp feel of cotton? That is the scent of change in 2026. Bangladesh’s $50 billion textile industry employs about 4 million people. For years, it has depended heavily on imported cotton. Now, rising costs and strict sustainability rules are changing the direction. Jute, the country’s golden fiber, is emerging as a smart and sustainable alternative.

Bangladesh is expected to consume 8.1 million bales of cotton in 2026. It remains the world’s largest cotton importer, according to the International Cotton Advisory Committee's February 2026 Cotton This Month report. Cotton is widely used because it is soft, easy to dye, and scalable for mass products like T-shirts and jeans.

However, this dependency comes at a cost. Global cotton prices increased by 25 percent in 2025 due to droughts in the United States and export restrictions in India, according to the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service 2025 Annual Report. A mid-sized mill faced an additional cost of $2 million to $3 million per quarter. This cost is either passed to buyers or absorbed as losses.

Supply disruptions add more pressure. A blockade in the Red Sea delayed shipments by three weeks last year. This caused about 20 percent of looms to remain idle, according to the BGMEA Quarterly Review Q1 2026. Factories continued to pay overhead costs while production stopped.

Jutton the blended opportunity

A new solution is gaining attention. It is called Jutton, a blend of 80 percent cotton and 20 percent jute. Mills such as Akij Textile Mills in Narayanganj are already producing this yarn for denim and hoodies.

Early 2026 tests by the Bangladesh Jute Mills Corporation showed strong results. Jutton provides 15 percent better insulation than pure cotton. It also captures twice as much carbon dioxide during cultivation, according to the BJMC Jute Innovation Report January 2026.

The cost advantage is clear. Pure cotton yarn costs around Tk 250 per kilogram. Jutton costs about Tk 220 per kilogram. This is a 12 percent saving, according to Bangladesh Textile Mills Association data.

European buyers are responding positively. After product demonstrations at trade fairs in Paris, orders for eco-friendly winter products increased by 30 percent from brands like H&M and Primark, according to Textile World Magazine, March 2026.

Jutco- Salma Group’s Sustainable Breakthrough in Cottonized Jute Technology

Jutco, a proprietary innovation by Salma Group, is a cottonized jute fiber designed to bridge traditional natural fibers and modern apparel manufacturing and engineered between 2021 and 2024 under the leadership of COO Md. Azhar Ali, the fiber, addresses key limitations of raw jute, including coarseness and skin irritation. Through advanced chemical and mechanical processing, Jutco achieves a softer, finer structure with moisture management properties comparable to linen, while remaining compatible with standard high-speed cotton spinning systems.

Produced primarily at Tamijuddin Textile Mills PLC, Jutco is designed for blended applications, typically at 20 to 25 percent with cotton, viscose, or Tencel. This enables the development of sustainable, breathable, and durable yarns suitable for global apparel brands such as Levi’s and H&M. The fiber also offers a cost-effective alternative to imported linen, supporting import substitution by leveraging locally available raw materials.

Beyond its technical advantages, Jutco reflects Salma Group’s strategic focus on Apparel 4.0 and sustainability. As a fully biodegradable solution, it positions Bangladesh to move up the value chain toward high-performance, eco-friendly textiles. With a projected production target of 100,000 metric tons by the mid-2020s, Jutco is poised to play a significant role in the global denim, knitwear, and home textile segments.

Europe’s green push creates opportunity

The European Union is pushing for stricter sustainability standards. The EU Green Deal requires full traceability and a 55 percent reduction in emissions by 2030. Cotton production consumes large amounts of water and involves heavy pesticide use. The WWF Water Footprint Report estimates 2,700 liters of water are needed to produce one T-shirt.

Jute offers a clear advantage. It grows with rainwater and decomposes naturally within months.

One exporter, Ha-Meem Group, shifted to Jutton products and successfully passed EU compliance audits. The company secured a €5 million export deal in April 2026. Jute also reduces logistics emissions by 40 percent compared to imported cotton, according to the UNCTAD Trade and Development Report 2025.

Policy support strengthens the shift

The government is supporting this transition. The Ministry of Textiles and Jute offers a 10 percent cash incentive for jute-blended products. This is higher than the 5 percent incentive for regular apparel under the Export Policy Order 2024 to 2027.

As a result, jute exports reached $1.2 billion in fiscal year 2025. This marks an 18 percent increase, according to preliminary data from the Bangladesh Export Promotion Bureau. Mills reports profit growth of 10 percent to 15 percent from diversified product lines.

Challenges remain in the transition

The sector still faces challenges. Gas prices have doubled to Tk 20 per unit, according to the BGMEA Energy Survey 2026. More than 50 mills have shut down, based on the BTMA Alert February 2026.

At the same time, low-cost yarn imports from India are creating pressure on local spinners. Energy shortages are delaying production by 10 to 15 days. Buyers are demanding price reductions and compliance with certifications such as GOTS.

The National Board of Revenue has introduced simplified sourcing procedures for 1,100 factories. This has reduced import processing time by 30 percent, according to the NBR Gazette Notification March 2026.

Industry projections remain positive. If energy issues are resolved, jute blends could account for 15 percent of Bangladesh’s apparel mix by 2028, according to the McKinsey and Company Bangladesh Apparel 2030 report.

Bangladesh’s textile sector is entering a new phase. It is moving from high-volume production to higher value creation. Blended fabrics like Jutton can increase margins by 8 percent to 12 percent while meeting sustainability targets, according to the BGMEA Sustainability Index 2026.

Global brands are looking for responsible sourcing and strong product stories. Jute provides both. It is local, environmentally friendly, and commercially viable.

The rapid growth of technology has transformed industries across the globe, including textiles. From automated knitting machines to digital printing, ERP systems, and smart supply chains, the textile sector is now deeply intertwined with electronic infrastructure. Yet, while sustainability conversations in the industry are dominated by textile waste, water consumption, and carbon emissions, another equally critical issue continues to remain largely ignored: electronic waste, or e-waste. 

Concern is steadily rising over the environmental and health impacts of improper e-waste management, particularly in developing countries. E-waste includes discarded electronic devices such as computers, machinery control panels, sensors, cables, and communication equipment. These components contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, cadmium, and brominated flame retardants, which pose significant risks to both ecosystems and human health when not properly handled. 

In the textile industry, the presence of e-waste is far more widespread than often acknowledged. Modern textile manufacturing relies heavily on electronic systems at every stage, from fiber processing and spinning to dyeing, finishing, and quality control. Each of these processes involves machines embedded with electronic components that eventually become obsolete. As factories upgrade to more efficient technologies, older equipment is frequently discarded without structured recycling or recovery systems. 

In textile industry everyone is talking about textile waste, but no one cares for e-waste, whereas e-waste is everywhere nowadays and it is closely connected with textile industry. From PLC-controlled dyeing machines to automated cutting systems and digital inspection tools, the industry is generating a silent stream of electronic waste that rarely enters sustainability discussions. 

Globally, e-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams. According to recent estimates, more than 50 million tons of e-waste are generated annually, and this number is expected to exceed 70 million tons within the next decade. Alarmingly, only about 20% of this waste is formally collected and recycled, while the remaining majority is either dumped in landfills or processed informally under unsafe conditions. In countries like Bangladesh, informal recycling sectors often handle e-waste using crude methods such as open burning or acid leaching, releasing toxic substances into the environment.

The environmental consequences are severe. Toxic metals from e-waste can leach into soil and groundwater, contaminating agricultural land and water sources. Air pollution from burning electronic components releases dioxins and furans, which are highly carcinogenic. These pollutants not only affect surrounding communities but also contribute to broader ecological degradation. 

The human health implications are equally alarming. Workers involved in informal e-waste recycling are often exposed to hazardous substances without protective equipment. Long-term exposure can lead to respiratory problems, neurological damage, kidney failure, and developmental issues in children. In urban industrial clusters where textile factories are concentrated, the overlap between textile operations and informal e-waste processing further amplifies these risks. 

Despite these challenges, the role of e-waste in industrial sustainability frameworks remains unclear. Much like the findings in environmental economic studies on deforestation, where multiple factors interact in complex and often unpredictable ways, the drivers and impacts of e-waste generation are not yet fully understood. Factors such as technological advancement, cost of machinery upgrades, labor availability, and regulatory enforcement all influence how e-waste is generated and managed. 

Macroeconomic conditions also play a role. Rapid industrial growth, increasing digitalization, and global demand for faster production cycles encourage frequent equipment upgrades, indirectly accelerating e-waste generation. At the same time, limited formal recycling infrastructure and weak regulatory enforcement in many developing countries create conditions where improper disposal becomes the default option. 

For the textile industry, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. On one hand, the sector risks adding another layer to its environmental footprint if e-waste continues to be overlooked. On the other hand, proactive engagement with e-waste management can strengthen sustainability credentials and align with evolving global expectations. 

A more integrated approach is needed. Sustainability in textiles cannot be limited to fabric waste, water efficiency, and carbon emissions alone. It must also include the lifecycle of machinery and electronic systems. This means adopting practices such as responsible disposal, certified recycling partnerships, and extended producer responsibility for equipment suppliers. 

At the factory level, simple steps can make a significant difference. Maintaining inventories of electronic equipment, extending the lifespan of machinery through proper maintenance, and ensuring safe storage of obsolete components can reduce immediate risks. Collaborating with certified e-waste recyclers can ensure that valuable materials such as copper, aluminum, and rare earth elements are recovered efficiently, reducing the need for virgin resource extraction. 

From a policy perspective, stronger regulations and enforcement mechanisms are essential. Governments need to establish clear guidelines for e-waste collection, transportation, and recycling, along with incentives for formal sector participation. Public awareness campaigns can also play a role in shifting perceptions and encouraging responsible practices. 

Importantly, global brands and buyers have a role to play. Just as they have driven improvements in wastewater treatment and chemical management, they can influence e-waste practices by incorporating it into compliance frameworks and sustainability audits. Transparency in reporting and accountability across the supply chain will be key to driving meaningful change. 

The textile industry stands at a critical juncture. It has made significant progress in addressing visible environmental issues, but hidden challenges like e-waste remain largely unaddressed. Ignoring this issue not only undermines sustainability efforts but also exposes the industry to long-term environmental and social risks. 

Sustainability is no longer about isolated improvements. It is about understanding interconnected systems and addressing impacts holistically. E-waste is one such interconnected issue, linking technology, environment, health, and industry practices. 

If the textile sector truly aims to lead in sustainable manufacturing, it must broaden its perspective. The conversation must move beyond fabric and water to include the electronics that power modern production. 

Because in today’s textile industry, waste is no longer just what we cut from fabric. It is also what we discard from our machines. 

More than 94 percent of garment factories in Dhaka and Chattogram have paid Eid bonuses to workers ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha holidays, according to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). 

In a statement issued on Monday, BGMEA said 2,021 out of 2,133 operational garment factories had disbursed Eid bonuses as of 25 May 2026. 

Among the factories that paid bonuses, 1,709 are located in Dhaka and 312 in Chattogram, accounting for 94.70 percent of the total operational units. 

The association also said that salaries for the month of April had been paid by 2,117 factories, representing 99.20 percent of all operational factories. Of these, 1,783 factories are in Dhaka and 334 in Chattogram. 

Meanwhile, 767 factories, or 35.94 percent of the total, have already paid advance salaries for the month of May ahead of the Eid holidays. 

According to BGMEA, workers from 108 garment factories left Dhaka on 24 May to celebrate Eid with their families. 

The employees of 664 factories are scheduled to leave the capital on 25 May, while workers from 771 factories will depart on 26 May. Another 251 factories are expected to release workers for Eid travel on 27 May. 

The garment sector remains one of the country’s largest employment generating industries, with factories traditionally paying salaries and festival bonuses before major religious holidays to facilitate workers’ travel and celebrations.

Türkiye’s apparel and denim industry is rapidly transforming into a premium sourcing hub as global buyers increasingly prioritize sustainability, speed, flexibility, transparency, and regulatory compliance over low-cost production.

According to the Istanbul Apparel Exporters’ Association (İHKİB), Turkish manufacturers are now aggressively investing in hyper-automated smart factories, circular production systems, and low-impact denim technologies to strengthen long-term competitiveness in the global market.

The shift is already visible in export performance. Data from the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM) shows Türkiye’s denim exports reached nearly $1.35 billion in 2026, rising from approximately $1.18 billion in 2025. Industry sources attribute the growth to strong European demand for premium near-shore denim products with higher environmental traceability and faster lead times.

Europe remains Türkiye’s largest denim export market, accounting for nearly 68% of total shipments, according to the İHKİB strategic roadmap.

Industry experts say Türkiye can no longer compete with Asian sourcing destinations based on labor cost advantages alone. Instead, the country is positioning itself as a technology-driven and sustainability-focused manufacturing base capable of delivering premium quality products with shorter production cycles.

One of the biggest transformations is taking place in denim finishing operations. Turkish manufacturers are rapidly replacing traditional stone washing and chemical-intensive processes with ozone, laser, and digitally automated finishing technologies.

Advanced systems from global technology providers such as Jeanologia and Tonello are now widely used across Turkish denim factories to reduce water and chemical consumption while improving production precision and consistency.

At the same time, local machinery manufacturers, including VAV Technology, Marmara Machine, and Bulut Makina, are supplying advanced domestically engineered systems tailored for Türkiye’s high-volume denim sector.

VAV Technology’s robotic laser systems enable highly precise distress applications, while Marmara Machine’s ozone generators support chemical-free bleaching processes. Bulut Makina’s nano bubble air mist technologies significantly reduce water and chemical use during finishing operations.

According to the International Textile Manufacturers Federation and Turkish textile industry associations, nearly 80% of Turkish denim factories had integrated ozone and laser technologies into production operations by 2025. Industry estimates suggest these technologies can reduce water consumption by up to 90% and chemical discharge by nearly 95%. Several advanced facilities have reportedly reduced water usage from almost 100 liters per kilogram of garment production to below 10 liters.

Artificial intelligence and automation are also emerging as major competitive advantages. AI-powered fabric inspection systems are increasingly being deployed across weaving and finishing lines to detect defects in real time, reduce waste, and improve operational efficiency. Automated laser robots and robotic material handling systems are helping factories improve productivity while reducing labor-intensive processes.

Circular manufacturing is becoming another key pillar of Türkiye’s denim strategy. Leading manufacturers, including ISKO and Mavi Jeans, are investing heavily in recycled cotton yarns, garment recycling systems, and post-consumer textile waste processing to meet growing global demand for circular textiles.

Several advanced Turkish denim mills are also operating Zero Liquid Discharge systems capable of recycling up to 99% of process water while minimizing hazardous chemical discharge.

Industry analysts believe Türkiye is steadily strengthening its position as a premium denim sourcing destination built on sustainability, innovation, speed, transparency, and compliance-driven manufacturing rather than low-cost competition alone.

The Ministry of Textiles and Jute organized a seminar titled “Sustainable Transition to Employment: Preparation and Career Pathways for Textile Students” on 23 May 2026.

Among the speakers was Shawkat Aziz Russell, President of the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), who highlighted the importance of the jute sector in the country’s economy.

Speaking at the event, the BTMA president said jute is a unique export product that allows the country to retain the full value of export earnings, adding that the wealth generated by the sector belongs entirely to the people of Bangladesh.

He emphasized the need to develop skilled textile graduates through improved education quality, modern laboratories, and experienced teachers. He also urged the introduction of technology-driven machinery at textile-related educational institutions across the country.

Shawkat Aziz Russell called on the government to extend policy support and patronage for the production of value-added products.

Besides, he expressed hope that with proper support, private sector entrepreneurs would be able to manufacture high value products and earn foreign currency beyond the country’s export targets through increased exports to the global market.

Khandaker Abdul Muktadir, Minister of Textiles and Jute, attended the seminar as the chief guest.

The seminar was moderated by Abdun Naser Khan, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, who also delivered the welcome address.

Officials from the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, representatives from related government bodies, and journalists from print and electronic media attended the event.

The partnership will combine Coats’ thread, digital technology, and technical support with JACK’s intelligent sewing systems, network, and technical expertise into a tailored offering for small-to-medium enterprises.

Coats Group PLC, a world-leading Tier 2 supplier of critical components to the apparel and footwear industries, and JACK Technology Co., Ltd. (JACK), a global leader in intelligent sewing equipment, today signed a Memorandum of Strategic Cooperation to accelerate innovation for China’s fast-growing small-to-medium-sized (SME) apparel manufacturing sector. 

As part of the partnership, Coats and JACK will deliver a tailored SME offering that combines high-performance Coats thread, Coats Digital software, and dedicated technical support with JACK’s intelligent sewing equipment and technical expertise. The integrated solution will help SME manufacturers identify and address shop‑floor inefficiencies in real-time, improve productivity and manage inventory levels more effectively.

“SMEs play a vital role in the global supply chain, yet their unique needs are often underserved,” said Adrian Elliott, Apparel CEO and Group Commercial Officer, Coats. “We’re thrilled to partner with JACK, a leader in the SME segment, and combine our capabilities for an industry-leading solution that delivers meaningful value to this important customer group.”

The specialized offering will be rolled out to apparel manufacturing SMEs across China in June through JACK’s extensive distribution network.

“We’re excited to partner with Coats to support the evolving needs of apparel SMEs and to help improve efficiency, quality and competitiveness across the sector,” said Moly (Li) Wu, CEO, JACK Technology Co., Ltd.   

The Memorandum was signed by Coats Apparel CEO and Group Commercial Officer, Adrian Elliott, and JACK CEO, Moly (Li) Wu, in Taizhou, China, on May 25, 2026.

Coats is a world-leading Tier 2 manufacturer and trusted partner for the apparel and footwear industries. We deliver essential materials, components, and software solutions that help our customers grow, compete and win.

With over 250 years of industry expertise, we’re shaping the future of the apparel and footwear supply chain through insight-led innovation, impactful sustainability practices, and digital technologies that unlock better product quality, efficiency and performance.

Headquartered in the UK, Coats is a FTSE 250 company and a constituent of the FTSE4Good Index. In 2025, we generated $1.5 billion in revenue and employed approximately 19,000 people worldwide — all united by a spirit of innovation, quality, and service.

Coats Digital, part of the Coats Group, is the leading digital transformation partner for the fashion supply chain. Its AI-powered software solutions — covering costing, forecasting, production scheduling and fabric cutting — give fashion brands and manufacturers the connected intelligence to drive efficiency, protect margins and reduce costs, from first cost to final delivery.

JACK is a global leader in intelligent sewing equipment and total solution provider for the garment, footwear, home furnishings, automotive and aviation sectors.
Their integrated solutions include everything from intelligent fabric cutting and sorting, sewing, hanging and storage, to real-time quality control, inspection and logistics management that help manufacturers improve efficiency, manage costs and reduce their energy use.

The global apparel sourcing industry is changing rapidly. The traditional business model, where factory owners wait for buying houses to bring orders and buying houses wait for buyers to visit Bangladesh, is becoming outdated. 

Today’s buyers are different. They are faster, more informed, and more demanding. They no longer evaluate suppliers based only on price or production capacity. Buyers now prioritize communication, speed, financial convenience, service quality, transparency, and problem-solving ability. 

This changing reality is creating a new kind of competition inside the industry itself. 

Many factories are now directly approaching international buyers through digital marketing, overseas representation, trade fairs, and global networking. In many cases, factories themselves are becoming competitors to traditional buying houses. 

At the same time, buying houses also face growing pressure. Simply acting as an intermediary is no longer enough for long-term survival. Buyers expect buying agencies to provide value-added services such as sourcing solutions, technical support, compliance guidance, product development, fast communication, and smooth coordination. 

Another major challenge affecting Bangladesh’s competitiveness is banking complexity and slow financial processes. Surprisingly, some buyers are now expressing more concern about banking procedures and transaction delays than about production itself. Delayed documentation, complicated payment processes, and slow responses reduce buyer confidence and create hesitation in placing orders. 

This is an area where industry associations, financial institutions, factory owners, and buying houses need stronger collaboration. 

A very important lesson can also be learned from regional competitors. Pakistan, despite facing serious economic and financial challenges, has many buying house owners operating offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other international business hubs. These locations provide buyers with comfort, accessibility, and smoother communication environments. 

Bangladesh’s buying houses and factory owners should also think strategically about international presence. In today’s market, sitting in luxury offices and waiting for buyers is no longer an effective business strategy. Companies must go closer to the buyers, build relationships, strengthen global networking, and improve responsiveness. 

The future competition will not only be between Bangladesh, Vietnam, or Pakistan. Very soon, both Bangladeshi factories and buying houses will face direct competition from Chinese, Japanese, and Korean sourcing agencies. 

These companies are not succeeding only because of price. They offer complete business solutions — faster communication, stronger technical support, efficient financial coordination, product innovation, and professional client servicing. 

Bangladesh still has strong manufacturing capability, experienced entrepreneurs, and a skilled workforce. However, the industry now needs a shift in mindset. 

The future of the apparel business will belong to those who can move faster, communicate better, solve problems quickly, and build stronger global trust. 

This is no longer only a manufacturing business. 

It is now a business of service, speed, strategy, relationships, and confidence. 

Building a culture of fashion and design based on transparency, responsibility, and authentic quality, where values, territories, craftsmanship and a “good” supply chain take centre stage — the project landed at Milan Design Week and in Rome during the European Innovation for Sustainability Summit week.

Making the invisible values of fashion and design visible, and offering consumers concrete tools to understand the real quality of products: this is the goal of InsideOut by C.L.A.S.S., the continuously evolving project that promotes a more transparent, responsible, and conscious fashion and design system. More than a campaign, InsideOut is a cultural and operational platform involving companies, institutions, and professionals, with the aim of guiding change in the fashion sector.

At the core of the initiative is a Decalogue of 10 values that define a new paradigm for the contemporary wardrobe.

Ethics, Social Initiatives, Traceability and Transparency, Environment, Health, Circular Economy, Design, Ingredients, Production, Dyeing and Finishing: measurable values that complement aesthetic and performance aspects, making the entire product journey readable, from raw materials to retail.

Since its launch on 25 November 2025 at BASE Milano, the journey of InsideOut has continued alongside its activations. Over the past month, the Decalogue of Values has taken centre stage at two.

On the occasion of Milan Design Week, InsideOut will take center stage within Oasi Life Experience, a format conceived by Idea Integrale and DDN Hub and promoted by Regione Lombardia, in Piazza Città di Lombardia.

On 24 April, the talk “New Generations of Values. InsideOut: Between the Visible and the Invisible, the Wardrobe we wear and live in” took place, moderated by SKY TG24 journalist Chiara Puglisi, with the participation of Giusy Bettoni, CEO & Founder of C.L.A.S.S. 

Maria Conti, Professor at the Department of Design at Politecnico di Milano, Isabella Goldmann, Bio-Architect and Founder of Goldmann C Partners and Raremood.com, and Marco Martinuzzi, Head of Research and Development for all textile collections of Rubelli Group.

A moment of dialogue and discussion was opened by the speech of Debora Massari, Councillor for Tourism, Territorial Marketing and Fashion of Regione Lombardia, with a reflection in line with the values of the campaign.

“Disconnection. That is what is happening between what we identify as ‘fashion’ and our wardrobe. Yet if we recognise fashion as a social and cultural phenomenon that defines styles and clothing, a way of expressing creativity, identity and therefore values… why shouldn’t our wardrobe do the same? We are working to give values back to the wardrobe, to educate and raise awareness not only about appearance, but also about what it represents, the way it is made, and who makes it.We need to rediscover those values in the products we buy and wear,” underlined Giusy Bettoni, CEO and Founder of C.L.A.S.S. G InsideOut by C.L.A.S.S.

European Innovation for Sustainability Summit – Rome

C.L.A.S.S. campaign took place in Rome, during the European Innovation for Sustainability Summit (EIIS), at CTE – Casa delle Tecnologie Emergenti.

The Decalogue of Values was presented through a panel moderated by SKY TG24 journalist Chiara Puglisi, with the participation of Giusy Bettoni, CEO C Founder of C.L.A.S.S., Loreto di Rienzo, member of the Technical and Scientific Committee of Fondazione Symbola, Tiziano Guardini, Conscious Creative Director, Barbara Lauro, Digital Strategist Director at Cultur-e, and Biagio Rocchi Agnes, Head of Product at EIIS.

In the afternoon, the co-creation workshop “Rethinking Fashion. InsideOut Values Decalogue: the Next Generation” took place, dedicated to the development of concrete solutions for the future of fashion and design through the lens of the next-generation values of the InsideOut Decalogue. The workshop was coordinated by Giusy Bettoni together with Loreto di Rienzo for the value Ethics and Social Initiatives,

Annalaura Ruffolo, Key Account and Brand Strategy Director at Cultur-e, for Communication, and Tiziano Guardini for Design.

Among the outputs that emerged:

• Respect: not only ethics as an abstract concept, but tangible respect towards people, territories, communities and supply chains.
• Design: design not only as aesthetics, but as a cultural and emotional tool capable of restoring meaning, identity and longevity to products.
• Communication: the urgency of finding new languages, new channels and more authentic ways to engage people, transforming awareness into participation.

The campaign and the workshop outputs were also presented on the Main Stage of the EIIS Summit, becoming part of an international programme dedicated to sustainable innovation topics, involving more than 3,000 participants including companies, institutions, professionals, students and stakeholders from different sectors.

The two events dedicated to the InsideOut by C.L.A.S.S. campaign took place under the patronage of: Regione Lombardia, AICTC –Associazione Italiana di Chimica Tessile e Coloristica, The British Chamber of Commerce for Italy, Camera Buyer Italia, Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana, CSM Camera Showroom Milano, CID – Consorzio Italiano Implementazione Detox, CNA Lombardia, Confartigianato Imprese Moda, Confindustria Moda, Filo, Fondazione Symbola, Milano Unica, Piattaforma Sistema Formativo Moda ETS, rén collective, Unic – Concerie Italiane and Lineapelle.

The Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS) has announced a seminar on digitalization, automation solutions, and Fourth Industrial Revolution transformation for the garment and textile sector. The event will take place in Hanoi on May 28 and is expected to bring together policymakers, technology experts, and industry leaders.

Under the theme “Smart Manufacturing for the Future,” the seminar aims to support textile and garment companies as they adapt to major global market changes and growing operational challenges.

Vietnam’s garment and textile industry is currently facing rising labor costs, stricter sustainability requirements from international buyers, and increasing pressure to shorten delivery lead times. Industry experts believe that moving from conventional production systems to smart manufacturing has become essential for maintaining competitiveness in the global apparel market.

The seminar will focus on providing businesses with practical insights into digital transformation and operational modernization. Organizers said the event is designed to help companies better understand how to optimize production processes, improve efficiency, and strengthen resource management through technology integration.

Technology specialists and industry speakers will present the latest automation solutions covering the entire apparel production chain. Discussions will include innovations in design, garment manufacturing, production planning, and integrated supply chain management.

Participants will also explore the application of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and automated control systems. According to organizers, these technologies can help manufacturers reduce production errors, improve productivity, and enhance operational flexibility.

The event will additionally highlight successful smart factory models that have already been implemented within the industry. VITAS expects these case studies to help member companies better evaluate investment strategies while minimizing unnecessary costs and operational risks during technology adoption.

Vietnam’s textile and apparel industry has been increasingly prioritizing digitalization and sustainable manufacturing as global buyers continue demanding higher transparency, efficiency, and environmental compliance across supply chains.

The government is set to formally launch an international bidding round today for offshore oil and gas exploration across 26 blocks in the Bay of Bengal under a revised production sharing framework aimed at attracting major global energy companies.

According to officials from the Energy and Mineral Resources Division and Petrobangla, the bidding notice under the Bangladesh Offshore Model Production Sharing Contract 2026 will be published today on official websites and in newspapers.

The bidding round will offer 11 shallow sea blocks and 15 deep sea blocks. Authorities hope revised fiscal incentives, flexible exploration terms and updated pricing mechanisms will help attract stronger participation from international energy companies after the 2024 offshore bidding round attracted no formal bids despite a nine-month window and a three-month extension.

Companies will be able to purchase bid documents from 1 June and submit tenders until 30 November, allowing a six-month period to review geological data and prepare proposals.

Officials said production periods have been fixed at 25 years for gas fields and 20 years for oil fields, with extension opportunities of up to 10 additional years.

The Energy and Mineral Resources Division held a 'Meet the Press' briefing at 2:30 pm on 23 May to present details of the bidding framework.

Hayat Md Feroze, Joint Secretary and Chief of the Development Wing of the Energy Division, said all preparations for the offshore bidding process had already been completed.

“Tender notices will be available on the website from Sunday morning,” he said.

According to the tender notice, a basic information package containing geological data, block maps and related documents will be available from 1 June at a cost of $100.

The complete promotional package, including seismic sections, gravity data, magnetic data and geological maps, will cost $7,000.

Officials from Petrobangla indicated that the bid submission deadline could be extended if the response from international companies remains weak during the initial six-month period.

Officials said the Bangladesh Offshore Model Production Sharing Contract 2026 has been significantly revised to improve competitiveness with regional energy producers amid growing domestic energy demand and declining gas reserves.

The revised framework includes Brent linked gas pricing, pipeline tariff mechanisms, full repatriation of profits, tax exemptions, export rights for contractors and political risk protection clauses. The government has also removed the signature bonus requirement to reduce upfront investment costs.

Engineer Md Shoaib, Director of the Production Sharing Contract Unit at Petrobangla, said the revised framework was designed to improve investor confidence and align Bangladesh’s offshore terms with international standards.

He added that the government accelerated preparation of the framework as part of a broader exploration plan aimed at increasing domestic energy production.

The bidding documents also include strict eligibility requirements for participating companies.

For shallow sea blocks, at least one member of a bidding consortium must currently operate offshore acreage with a minimum production capacity of 5,000 barrels of oil or 75 million cubic feet of gas per day.

Participating companies must also demonstrate at least one exploration and production experience outside their home country.

Textile Engineers Alumni Association of Southeast University (TEAASEU) organized a human chain and protest gathering on 23 May 2026 at Southeast University in protest against the alarming rise of child rape, abuse, and murder across the country.

The program was attended by the President of TEAASEU, Shariqul Islam Shourov, General Secretary Arifur Rahman Robin, Grand Advisor to the Committee Foysal Ahmed, Rajesh Ranjan Sarker, Senior News Presenter of Global Television and Alumni of SEUTEX, along with committee members, students, and TEAASEU members.

Speakers at the event strongly condemned the brutal incidents of violence against children and demanded swift and exemplary punishment for the perpetrators. They emphasized the need for collective social resistance, public awareness, and strict enforcement of law to ensure the safety and dignity of children.

Participants expressed solidarity with victims and their families and called upon authorities to take immediate action against offenders to prevent such horrific crimes from recurring.

The event concluded with a unified message against child abuse, rape, and violence, reaffirming the commitment of TEAASEU and the students of Southeast University to stand for justice and humanity.

ThreadBridge has revealed that its AI-powered smart glasses have helped save 37 tons of carbon emissions across four garment factories in Bangladesh. It is done through instant defect detection and production optimization.

The announcement was made during the Global Fashion Summit held in Copenhagen, where the company highlighted how artificial intelligence can improve operational efficiency and sustainability inside apparel manufacturing facilities.

According to ThreadBridge, the smart glasses use AI-based instant defect detection technology to identify production issues directly on the factory floor. The system allows workers and supervisors to detect faults earlier in the manufacturing process, helping reduce material waste, rework, and energy consumption.

The company said the technology has already been implemented in four ready-made garment factories in Bangladesh, delivering measurable environmental benefits alongside improved production efficiency.

Speaking at the summit, ThreadBridge emphasized that the factory floor represents one of the biggest opportunities for optimization across the global fashion supply chain.

The company noted that faster defect identification can significantly reduce unnecessary fabric usage, lower production delays, and minimize excess energy consumption associated with repeated manufacturing processes.

Bangladesh’s RMG sector has been increasingly adopting digital technologies and AI-driven solutions as manufacturers look to improve productivity, compliance, and sustainability performance in response to growing global buyer expectations.