Experts will shine a spotlight on various issues, including that of sustainability, with a particular focus on production, the environment and certifications. A fashion show, trend area and matchmaking platform are just some of the programme highlights to be found in the Millennium Hall in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, organisers report.

Sustainable fashion and production

The origins of fashion and sustainable production is becoming particularly relevant to more and more fashion buyers. The Africa Sourcing & Fashion Week is anticipating an increasing interest in eco fashion and will present new approaches in this respect. H&M, WRAP, GIZ (Society for International Cooperation) Ethiopia and Solidaridad will present sustainable solutions as part of the conference.

International manufacturers of textile machines will also be showcasing new technologies for the African market. This includes the Italian textile machine association ACIMIT, which will be represented with a range of product innovations. Designers will also get a specific information offer targeted to them at the trade fair: at a separate designer conference, experts will give presentations on International Fashion – designed in Africa.

In WSGN, a renowned trend agency will make a contribution to future trends in women's, men's and children's clothing. Visitors and exhibitors can look forward to further design highlights in the area Trend House – international trends made in Africa, organisers explain.

New trade fair brands

The Africa Sourcing & Fashion Week (ASFW) is Africa's largest textile trade fair and has taken place in the Millennium Hall in Addis Ababa since 2015. It serves as a meeting place for garment manufacturers and the east African textile industry. Apparel fabrics, fashion and accessories are the main items on display, and home collections and decorative items are also presented. Machine manufacturers for garment production, CAD/CAM systems, printers, inks and accessories have a strong presence.

As a new cooperation partner of the event, Messe Frankfurt is expecting international textile suppliers and buyers to attend the third edition of the biggest textile trade fair in Africa. Within the context of the partnership, the three new trade fair brands Texworld Addis Ababa, Apparel Sourcing Addis Ababa and Texprocess Addis Ababa will be launched at Africa Sourcing & Fashion Week. The event trio will present over 250 international exhibitors from 25 countries.

www.asfw-online.com