Fashion
Uzbekistan announces tax, customs incentives for textile enterprises
Measures to back financial recovery include restructuring the debts of cotton-textile clusters on loans issued from the State Agricultural Support Fund for the 2022-2023 harvest.
For clusters with collateralised assets, interest payments will be deferred until the principal is repaid. Those who met obligations on time will be refunded half of interest paid, while accrued penalties on overdue interest as of August 1, 2025, will be written off.
Uzbekistan has announced measures to accelerate reforms and expand export potential in the textile and knitwear industry, targeting a 9-per cent rise in 2026 production and an export boost to $3.3 billion.
Debts of cotton-textile clusters would be restructured and beginning September 1, a reduced social tax rate of 1 per cent will be imposed for three years on these and textile and knitwear enterprises.
Farmers will receive subsidies of 1 million soums this year for each tonne of raw cotton sold to processors via exchange trading to ensure uninterrupted cotton harvesting. Clusters and enterprises financing cotton cultivation or procurement with their own funds will be reimbursed 10 per cent of its cost, according to domestic media reports.
Beginning September 1, a reduced social tax rate of 1 per cent will be imposed for three years on cotton-textile clusters and textile and knitwear enterprises. In addition, customs duties will be waived off on blended fabrics, textiles and raw materials for the leather and silk industries not produced in Uzbekistan.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
The agreement, signed in Dhaka, established a framework for technical assistance and capacity building. HMRC experts will help the NBR implement reforms under the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement, improve risk management systems, and expand the recently launched Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme. These steps are expected to streamline border processes, cut delays, and enhance confidence among global trading partners.
UK’s HMRC and Bangladesh’s NBR have signed an MoU in Dhaka to modernise customs and strengthen trade facilitation.
HMRC will provide training, technical advice, and support for WTO reforms, risk management, and the AEO programme.
The move is expected to cut delays, boost competitiveness, and aid Bangladesh’s transition from LDC status, while complementing wider UK-backed economic reforms.
As part of the collaboration, NBR officials will receive both in-person and virtual training, along with peer-to-peer learning opportunities and short-term staff exchanges. Support will also include guidance on risk profiling and information-sharing systems to strengthen enforcement and compliance, as per Bangladesh’s media reports.
Martin Dawson, deputy development director at the British High Commission in Dhaka, said the agreement highlights the UK’s continued support for Bangladesh’s economic transition. He further said that efficient customs systems will be crucial as Bangladesh moves beyond its Least Developed Country status, opening up new opportunities for growth and competitiveness.
NBR chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan welcomed the partnership, calling it “a valuable step in our efforts to modernise customs and improve trade facilitation.” He added that the technical support from the UK will aid Bangladesh in strengthening systems and advancing economic growth.
The cooperation forms part of a broader UK assistance programme focused on economic development in Bangladesh, which also includes reforms in trade policy, investment climate, and the financial sector, added the reports.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SG)
Translated by
Nazia BIBI KEENOO
Published
September 24, 2025
Saint Laurent, Fendi, Celine, Valentino, Dries Van Noten, Alberta Ferretti, Plan C, JW Anderson, Ports 1961 — these are just a few of the luxury heavyweights ushering in a new chapter for Milan’s high-end retail scene. As Milan Fashion Week kicks off on Tuesday, September 23, the city is witnessing an unprecedented wave of flagship openings that are reshaping the heart of the Lombard capital. At the center of this transformation lies the iconic Quadrilatero district and its surrounding streets, now buzzing with renewed energy and strategic investments. Together, these launches reflect a confident rebound in the luxury market — and a bold commitment to Milan as a global style capital.
Dries Van Noten
Dries Van Noten is making his Milan debut with the opening of his very first boutique in the trendy Brera district, at 11 Via Brera — a historic cobblestone street in the city center. The 50-square-meter “Gallery” concept, already launched in Paris and Brussels, is dedicated to fragrances, beauty products, and accessories.
With vaulted ceilings, stone walls, and a patinated finish, the space retains the charm of the 19th-century palazzo it inhabits while offering a chic, intimate atmosphere ideal for discovery. Among the standout design elements are a striking 1970s Venini Venetian glass chandelier and a 1950s desk by Silvio Berrone.
Saint Laurent
Kering’s fashion house Saint Laurent has unveiled a stunning transformation at its flagship located at 8 Via Montenapoleone. Spanning three levels and nearly 1,300 square meters, the completely renovated and expanded space is now twice its previous size. This boutique marks the Italian debut of the brand’s new store concept, designed by creative director Anthony Vaccarello, which “pays tribute to Italian craftsmanship and innovative design.”
Marble, ceramics, bronze moldings, and eucalyptus wood were among the materials used to create a space that blends glamour with contemporary design. Artworks, furniture, and signature pieces by Gio Ponti, Carlo Scarpa, Osvaldo Borsani, Marco Zanuso, Aldo Tura, Gaetano Pesce, and Vincenzo De Cotiis are thoughtfully placed throughout the space, evoking the ambiance of an elegant Milanese apartment.
Valentino
A few doors down at 20 Via Montenapoleone, Valentino reopened its historic boutique — first inaugurated in 1969 — earlier this September following a major renovation. Entirely outfitted in white with bold black accents, the contemporary three-level store spans 1,170 square meters. Velvet green sofas, Art Deco lighting, and brass furnishings add a glamorous touch, reflecting the eclectic aesthetic of creative director Alessandro Michele.
The boutique features two separate entrances, each leading to dedicated spaces for women’s and men’s collections. One side showcases women’s ready-to-wear, shoes, handbags, small leather goods, eyewear, and beauty products, while the other side presents menswear and accessories.
JW Anderson
Nearby, at 16 Via Sant’Andrea, JW Anderson is preparing to unveil its revamped boutique. Opened in May 2023, the flagship of Irish designer Jonathan Anderson is undergoing a transformation that mirrors the evolution of his brand since he took over as creative director of both Christian Dior‘s menswear and womenswear.
The aim is to offer a full lifestyle concept — from knitwear to ceramic objects and designer chairs — with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship. Like the newly launched London store, this Milan location is being reimagined as a true cabinet of curiosities.
Plan C
Founded in 2018 by Carolina Castiglioni — daughter of Marni founder Consuelo Castiglioni — Plan C is opening its first standalone boutique at 21 Via Manzoni. Known for its timeless, detail-rich design, the Italian luxury label has already won over 160 top retailers globally, including La Samaritaine and Merci in Paris. It is now entering a new era of retail.
Named “Plan C Frame,” the 380-square-meter space was designed by Castiglioni in collaboration with April and architecture studio (AB)Normal. It features geometric forms and a vibrant palette, structured like a concept store with distinct colored areas for different product worlds.
A pale green pop-up corner showcases jewelry by Aliita, the brand founded by Venezuelan-Dutch designer Cynthia Vilchez, who is celebrating its 10th anniversary. A dramatic red spiral staircase leads to the lower level — a stepped amphitheater-like space designed to host conferences and now transformed into a bookstore and magazine kiosk.
“It’s a living, modular, dynamic space that reflects Plan C,” explains Castiglioni. “The idea is to welcome a variety of brands, designers, and product categories that will rotate regularly.” She adds, “This boutique is a key milestone for us. It’s an investment meant to increase our visibility and reach a wider audience.”
Fendi and Celine… with Christian Dior on the horizon
Following the grand spring openings of Bulgari, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co., LVMH is now rolling out another highly anticipated series of launches along the famous Via Montenapoleone.
Leading the charge is Fendi, which has unveiled its Palazzo Fendi Milano — a row of showcases located at the end of the street, continuing beneath the arches of Corso Matteotti. Housed in a majestic six-story building that pays tribute to Milanese architectural heritage, the new space features a 910-square-meter boutique spanning four floors, a leather and fur atelier showcasing the brand’s artisanal expertise, and three restaurants developed in partnership with Langosteria.
Just a few doors away at 25 Via Montenapoleone, Celine will soon reopen its boutique with an expanded layout and refreshed interior. Christian Dior is also expected to open a major new location in Milan in the coming months.
Alberta Ferretti
Italian fashion house Alberta Ferretti is opening a new flagship at 26 Via della Spiga, parallel to Via Montenapoleone. The new concept reflects the vision of Lorenzo Serafini, who took over as creative director last year. Developed in collaboration with Re-Design Studio, led by Riccardo Furlani, and Alessandro Fantetti Workshop (AAFW), the store spans two floors and 250 square meters.
A soft, minimalistic palette in warm white tones defines the space. “The choice of materials emphasizes soft textures and neutral shades, complemented by integrated lighting to create a natural, welcoming ambiance. Every element contributes to an intimate, refined shopping experience that aligns with the house’s signature timeless elegance,” said the company in a statement.
Ports 1961
Also on Via della Spiga, at number 8, Ports 1961 has opened its new flagship boutique. Spread across two levels and covering 200 square meters, the refined space features a minimalist color palette, clean geometric lines, and carefully selected materials.
Founded in Toronto in 1961 by Japanese-Canadian designer Luke Tanabe, Ports 1961 is now owned by Ports International Enterprises, which is affiliated with the Hong Kong-based group PCD. The label’s creative studio is based in Milan’s Brera district. Last year, Francesco Bertolini was appointed creative director, marking a significant new chapter for the brand.
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Uzbekistan, a rising power in the global apparel export domain, is one such name that is preparing to establish a stronger foothold in the US textile market.
Uzbekistan is working to strengthen its presence in the $100 billion US textile market through initiatives like opening trading houses in St. Louis and New York.
To boost exports and competitiveness, Uzbekistan is investing in modernising its textile sector even as reforms are reportedly focused on upgrading technology, improving compliance, and securing international certifications.
Speaking to Fibre2Fashion Isomiddin Mirzayev, the head of international relations and foreign investment at the Uztextile Industry Association, shared that while new US tariffs are often layered over existing ones—raising the risk of double taxation—Uzbek products still face lower overall duties compared to many other countries.
“The overall tariff burden on Uzbek goods remains lower than that on some other countries, potentially giving us a competitive edge—especially as buyers shift orders away from China,” underlined Isomiddin.
With deep roots in cotton production, Uzbekistan is taking calculated steps to expand its reach into the $100 billion US textile market.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has announced plans to open two textile trading houses in key American cities—St. Louis and New York—as part of this broader strategic vision. These hubs are expected to serve as promotional and sales centres, linking Uzbek manufacturers directly with US retailers, fashion brands, and buyers.
This move is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a practical and targeted effort to tap into one of the world’s most lucrative consumer markets. The idea is to eliminate intermediaries and create direct lines of communication between producers and buyers, thereby improving efficiency, responsiveness, and profitability.
By placing trading houses in cities with commercial significance and a well-established fashion ecosystem, Uzbekistan is positioning itself to play a more proactive role in the global apparel supply chains.
“Even though the actual export volume remains modest still— under $2 million annually, with proper positioning, a targeted marketing strategy, and optimised logistics, Uzbekistan could significantly increase its export volumes to the US,” claimed Isomiddin in an earlier interaction.
The trading houses, if industry insiders are to be believed, are just one aspect of a much broader push to modernise the Uzbek textile industry, which has been grappling with external pressures such as falling global cotton prices lately.
Recognising the availability of raw material alone is not enough, the government has reportedly launched a series of reforms aimed at upgrading infrastructure, technology, and compliance standards.
According to reports, a $200 million preferential fund has also been allocated to help manufacturers modernise operations and meet export goals. The focus is not only on increasing output but also on elevating the quality and traceability of products to meet international standards.
One of the critical steps in this modernisation journey is improving industry credibility through global certifications.
Uzbekistan is reportedly aiming to have at least 300 textile firms certified to international standards, making them more attractive to buyers who prioritise sustainability, ethical sourcing, and quality assurance.
These certifications are not just badges of compliance; they are gateways to larger orders and longer-term contracts from established brands.
In parallel, the government is also said to be investing in technological upgrades, which will help streamline operations, enhance inventory and supply chain visibility, and enable better decision-making at all levels of the production process.
The country is also reportedly turning to artificial intelligence to boost productivity, improve transparency, and reinforce traceability in the textile sector, according to industry insiders, who claimed that subsidies are also being offered to train workers in digital tools and automation, with the ultimate aim of building a smart, agile, and responsive industry.
The Uzbek government is also reportedly eyeing the European market with the overarching goal to double exports of finished textile products. By shifting focus from commodity exports to finished goods, the country aims to retain more economic value, generate employment, and elevate its status as a competitive player in the global apparel ecosystem.
In a world where supply chains are increasingly scrutinised for transparency, ethics, and sustainability, Uzbekistan is making the right moves, feel experts, who are of the opinion that if effectively implemented, these measures could transform the country’s apparel industry drastically.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DR)
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