As a platform for discovery and business exchange, Yarn Expo Spring, held from 6 -8 March in Shanghai, spun a global thread of connection across its hall. Drawing nearly 22,000 buyers from 107 countries and regions to connect with over 515 exhibitors from 11 countries and regions, this year’s edition witnessed a rise in internationality, with overseas visitors increasing by 90%, and five new exhibiting countries joining the fold (Bangladesh, Germany, Indonesia, Singapore, and the UAE).

Across the 27,000 square metre show floor, sustainability took centre stage as streams of visitors explored the latest innovations, from eco-friendly cotton yarns, to recycled and regenerated fibres, and more.

Speaking at the fair’s conclusion, Ms Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, said: "Much of the global textile industry has been working to make manufacturing processes more sustainable; developing transparency measures within their supply chains to achieve this goal. With a rise in international exhibitors, coupled with increased domestic options, buyers found inspiration in the many eco-friendly innovations showcased across the fairground. The global synergy bodes well for future editions, as exhibitors were impressed by the high visitor quality and buying competence.”

Over the three-day showcase, sustainability was a strong theme. Amongst the wide variety of products on display, many brands incorporated both natural and regenerated synthetic fibres, prioritising yarn quality, and a commitment to building towards a more environmentally friendly and ethical future. By enhancing this ambition, Texpertise Econogy, the umbrella for Messe Frankfurt’s sustainability activities, is poised to continue infusing eco-consciousness into the organisation’s more than 50 textile trade shows worldwide.

This was clearly demonstrated across multiple pavilions and zones, featuring products such as recycled yarns, Tencel yarns, and organic cotton, complemented by a series of innovation-focused fringe events. These included China Fibres Fashion Trends Display Zone, highlighting the latest downstream vogues for various yarns and fibres.

Domestic and international participation grows

International exhibitor numbers doubled, with domestic exhibitors also up by 27%. In addition, the show recorded visitors from 52% more countries and regions – a sign of healthy demand and recent visa reforms, with the top five international visiting countries and regions including Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, and Russia. Meanwhile, wide-ranging positive feedback underscored the fair as Asia’s leading yarn and fibre platform.

Exhibitor comments

"We are a knitting fabric factory based in Ningbo, and we also operate a trading company in Vietnam. Our products range from CVC yarns to sustainable cotton yarns. At this fair, our goal is to expand our customer base in China but also in other markets such as India, Europe, and America. Because of the show’s strategic location in Shanghai, it attracts many global attendees. We have met many potential clients and established numerous contacts for future collaboration and business opportunities," Commented Ms Rachel Ruan, Sales Supervisor, QIMENG (Viet Nam) Textile Company Limited, Vietnam.

"This edition, we partnered with Sateri to develop Lyocell yarns. Our focus is on promoting these sustainable yarns, targeting middle and high-end brands who prioritise environmental considerations. With the mass production of Lyocell yarn, we anticipate significant market demand and aim to expand our Lyocell series through this platform. Our booth has been bustling with activity, with international buyers from South America showing keen interest," added Ms Vivi Hu, Head of Foreign Trade Department, JINGYI Group, China.

Buyer feedback

“This is China's largest yarn and fibre fair, showcasing various materials, from semi-finished to finished products, which inspires us. We attend to spot market trends, new technologies, and fresh development ideas, particularly seeking functional fibres. Foreign brands have increased participation, highlighting China's strong market. The future holds promise as the domestic market prioritises functional materials for health, safety, and comfort,” said Mr Tyler Shi, General Manager, Zhongshan Hai Pu Nuo Si Biotechnology Co Ltd, China.

Yarn Expo Spring is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT. The fair was held alongside Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition, Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition, CHIC and PH Value, with the resultant synergy allowing exhibitors and buyers to maximise their business opportunities.

Other upcoming shows

- Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics / Yarn Expo Shenzhen, 5 – 7 June 2024, Shenzhen (Futian)

- Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition / Yarn Expo Autumn, 27 – 29 August 2024, Shanghai

www.yarn-expo-spring.com