Fashion
Uzbekistan taking steps to expand footprint in US
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)
The action will be suspended for a year beginning today, an USTR release said.
The Office of the USTR yesterday announced suspending action in the Section 301 investigation of China’s targeting of the maritime, logistics and shipbuilding sectors for dominance.
The action will be suspended for a year beginning today.
The suspension follows the historic trade and economic deal reached between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping announced by the White House on November 1.
The suspension follows the historic trade and economic deal reached between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping announced by the White House on November 1.
During the suspension period, no party will accrue liability for or be required to pay the fees on maritime transport services and duties.
The United States will negotiate with China pursuant to Section 301 regarding the issues raised in this investigation. While taking these actions, the United States will continue its domestic efforts and its discussions with key allies and partners on revitalising American shipbuilding.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
The label provides manufacturers of apparel, personal protective equipment (PPE), and uniforms with independent garment testing for fit, workmanship, and durability. The service is now available at the new OETI location in Žilina, Slovakia.
OETI Slovakia has launched the ‘Fit & Proof’ label offering independent testing for garment fit, workmanship, and durability.
Based in Žilina, it supports apparel, PPE, and uniform manufacturers.
The service helps brands cut return rates, detect flaws early, and ensure consistency.
It also aids retailers, e-commerce, and public procurement in verifying garment quality and performance.
The goal is to ensure product quality, reduce return rates, and verify garment fit in accordance with customer specifications and the finished size chart.
Broad Field of Application: for Retail, E-Commerce, and Public Procurement
Private-label retailers and brands can communicate their quality standards transparently with the label. Online retailers benefit from reduced return rates due to improved fit. Public institutions gain assurance during the tendering and procurement process for fit and durable, tested garments.
Detect Defects Early, Minimise Complaints
The ‘Fit & Proof’ label is based on comprehensive Fit testing on real test subjects by our experienced clothing engineers – a key advantage over standard material tests.
The service includes:
- Fit testing: With real test wearers to assess size consistency and pattern accuracy
- Workmanship assessment: Visual and functional checks of seams, closures, and construction details
- Durability testing: Stress tests simulating washing, abrasion, and everyday wear to determine long-term product performance
These analyses help manufacturers and brands identify potential weaknesses early and optimise product quality. At the same time, independent validation and transparent customer communication with the OETI ‘Fit & Proof’ label enhance brand reputation and strengthen competitive positioning.
“Many manufacturers only test materials, but not the finished garment,” says Dana Rástocná-Illová PhD, Managing Director of OETI Slovakia. Our goal is to help manufacturers and brands to detect product flaws early and reduce returns and complaints.’
International Demand for Verified Garment Quality
‘We are pleased now to offer the ‘Fit & Proof’ service internationally. Our global OETI offices – including our location in Bangladesh – have already expressed strong interest in actively promoting this service in their markets,’ adds Dr Miriam Scheffelmeier, Head of Global Marketing & Sales at OETI.
The new location in Žilina expands OETI’s lab infrastructure and enables close cooperation with local universities and international brands.
As part of the TESTEX Group, OETI Slovakia offers internationally recognised testing and certification services, ensuring greater transparency, sustainability, and quality throughout the global textile and leather supply chain.
Note: The headline, insights, and image of this press release may have been refined by the Fibre2Fashion staff; the rest of the content remains unchanged.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (MS)
With over 8 million memberships, DFB is the largest national sports association in the world. Anchoring the brand in the DFB universe and the football culture, the partnership will resonate with fans of football and style among new and existing Zalando customers and cement its position at the intersection of sport and fashion. It marks a major milestone for Zalando’s strategic goal of further expanding as a lifestyle destination.
The comprehensive partnership with DFB grants Zalando a wide range of exclusive marketing and activation rights, creating exciting opportunities for football enthusiasts in Germany and beyond to connect with Zalando. Key elements include:
Zalando has signed a five-year partnership with the German Football Association, becoming a main partner across Men’s, Women’s and Youth teams.
The deal includes branding on training and pre-match kits, major media visibility and exclusive fan activations.
Zalando will use the collaboration to connect sport and style, enhance loyalty benefits and create new football-inspired campaigns and content.
- Prominent branding: Zalando’s logo will be featured on all pre-match and training kits for DFB’s Men’s, Women’s, and Youth teams.
- Extensive media presence: The partnership includes a full suite of marketing rights, such as significant stadium LED board visibility, cam carpets, media backdrop branding, and a strong integrated social media presence.
- Exclusive activations: Zalando will host a unique, in-camp studio during all major tournaments, creating exclusive behind-the-scenes content for Zalando customers. Zalando Plus customers in Germany will get exclusive access to raffles of tickets and gear.
The partnership is introduced through a dedicated campaign, showcasing that football is about more than just the game; it’s about style and attitude, and how owning that style with confidence creates icons beyond the pitch. The campaign references DFB legends and their memorable looks and performances, including Franz Beckenbauer’s legendary collar and Berti Vogts’ oversized fits – proof that style has always been integral to success.
The campaign not only looks back at the fashion heritage of the last decades but to a new age of style makers and star players such as Florian Wirtz, Joshua Kimmich and Karim Adeyemi.
James Rothwell, Senior Vice President Marketing at Zalando, says: “Football and fashion have a long history together, and collectively play a major role in German culture. We are delighted to become a main partner of the DFB, and to build on that legacy. We hope to inspire a new generation of fans to find confidence in their style on and off the pitch. Sport is a major focus for Zalando, and we have seen significant growth of sports audiences and brands on our platform. Through this partnership, we are excited to insert our brand into the most passionate, engaged cultural conversation in Germany, connect fans with incredible content, assortment and experiences, and to create access to special moments for fans. We look forward to celebrating key sporting events over the next five years with a diverse and passionate football community.”
Holger Blask, Chairman of the Management Board at DFB GmbH und Co. KG says: “We are delighted to welcome Zalando as a new, strong, and simply ideal main partner by our side. As a leading international e-commerce and fashion company rooted in Germany, Zalando represents creativity, diversity, and a forward-looking approach. Football and DFB are more than just about sport – they are an expression of community and emotional connection. Together with Zalando, we aim to set new standards – connecting sport, lifestyle, and fashion with digital culture. This partnership demonstrates a perfect synergy between tradition and innovation, emotion and style.”
Zalando will further leverage the partnership by enhancing its loyalty experience. An exclusive “Plus Zone” debuts for Zalando Plus customers in Germany, integrated within the sports landing page and serving as the central hub for special raffles and partnerships starting today. Plus members can enter to win tickets for the Germany vs. Slovakia match in Leipzig (Application open from 6-10th November). In addition, an exclusive raffle will offer 5 jerseys of the new World Cup kit signed by the entire team (application open from 11-18th November). The Plus Zone will be continually updated with exclusive opportunities to join the football excitement.
Further exciting elements of the partnership will be unveiled in 2026.
The partnership underpins Zalando’s ambition to further expand as a lifestyle destination, moving beyond a generalist offering to provide a curated, high-performance experience. In the last few years, Zalando has significantly expanded its expertise in key areas like football, running and cycling, onboarding technical assortment, unveiling dedicated onsite experiences for customers for different sport types and authentically embedding the Zalando brand in sports culture through supporting major sporting events in Europe.
Note: The headline, insights, and image of this press release may have been refined by the Fibre2Fashion staff; the rest of the content remains unchanged.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RM)
US halts action against China in maritime-logistics-shipbuilding case
OETI Slovakia launches ‘Fit & Proof’ label for garment testing
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