Saudi Arabia and Japan Forge Sustainable Textile Partnership
Collaborative event in Riyadh focuses on high-quality materials, sustainability, and innovation in the fashion industry
In a significant move to bolster the fashion and textile sectors, Saudi Arabia's Fashion Commission has partnered with Japanese entities to enhance collaboration.
The event, titled 'A Journey into Japanese Textile Mastery,' was organized in conjunction with the Japan External Trade Organization and took place at the Future Creative Residence in Riyadh.
The gathering brought together leading textile manufacturers, designers, and industry experts from both nations to discuss high-quality materials, sustainability, and innovation.
The event featured a panel discussion with insights from Ammar Bogari, General Manager of the Fashion Commission; Asma Al-Othaimeen, co-founder of Chaldene Loungewear; and representatives from Japanese companies FAO International and Itochu Corporation.
Discussions centered on the potential influence of Japanese textiles on Saudi brands, particularly in areas such as craftsmanship, sustainable production, and luxury materials.
The event also included an exhibition showcasing renowned Japanese textile companies, including Curlelabo, Maker’s Shirt Kamakura, Shindo, Uni Textile, and Parfait Textile.
Attendees explored the latest fabric technologies and high-quality textiles aimed at supporting both emerging and established Saudi designers.
Asma Al-Othaimeen highlighted the importance of integrating Japanese precision and attention to detail into local sustainable fashion, while Vivian Huang, co-founder of Parfait Textile, emphasized the appeal of Japanese craftsmanship, particularly for small and growing brands.
One of the key displays focused on the history of Japan’s fabric trade relations with Saudi Arabia, showing how Japanese textile exports, especially synthetic textiles, have become significant in traditional Saudi attire.
The event concluded with a networking session, providing Saudi designers and business owners an opportunity to explore collaborations with Japanese manufacturers, further strengthening the growing relationship between the two countries in the fashion sector.