Herculite Products Inc. Announces The Acquisition Of Strata Film Coatings

EMIGSVILLE, Pa. — April 22, 2025 — Herculite Products Inc., an innovator in high-performance technical textile composites, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Strata Film Coatings, a renowned manufacturer of advanced film coating solutions. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone in Herculite’s ongoing commitment to expand its product offerings and enhance its market presence.

Peter McKernan, Sr., CEO of Herculite Products Inc., expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition: “We are thrilled to welcome Strata Film Coatings into the Herculite family. Their expertise in film coating complements our existing product offering and aligns perfectly with our vision of providing innovative value-enhancing solutions to our customers. The acquisition enables us to further differentiate our value proposition with an even broader range of products and services distinguished by their exceptional quality and innovation.”

A spokesperson for Strata Film Coatings added: “Joining forces with Herculite is a fantastic opportunity for Strata Film Coatings, given our shared values and business principles. Herculite’s 75-year commitment to industry-leading innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction enhances our ability to deliver solutions across a broader portfolio.”

Strata Film Coatings is recognized for its advanced film coating technologies, which deliver superior optical clarity, excellent durability, UV protection, flame retardancy, and scratch resistance. Their products are widely used in various applications, including marine enclosures, automotive, architectural windows, protective coverings, shade systems, medical supplies, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

The acquisition of Strata Films Coatings is part of Herculite’s strategic plan, which expands its market capability and strengthens its position as a total solution provider in high-performance technical textile composites. By integrating Strata Film Coatings technologies, Herculite aims to deliver enhanced value to its customers and drive further innovation across its product portfolio.

Posted: April 23, 2025

Source: Herculite Products Inc.

Functional Fabric Fair Spring 2025 Portland Event Draws Increased Attendance As Industry Navigates Global Supply Chain Shifts

NORWALK, Conn. — April 22, 2025 — Functional Fabric Fair, powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS®, concluded its Spring 2025 edition in Portland, Ore., with increased attendance of 9 percent and expanded square footage exhibition floor layout by 30 percent. The three-day event at the Oregon Convention Center, from April 14-16, connected apparel executives, product developers, designers and sourcing professionals from major performance and athletic brands including Adidas, Patagonia, REI, Nike, Vuori and many more with 320 vetted sustainable-certified and reliable suppliers during a period of continued global supply chain volatility.

“In today’s economic and supply chain uncertainty, Functional Fabric Fair maintained 100 percent exhibitor participation in addition to attendee growth, emphasizing the event’s essential and valuable role in the industry,” stated Steve McCullough, event vice president. “Supply chain resilience and relationship solidification emerged as critical themes this edition, with brands leveraging their time to secure partnerships with trusted suppliers for their Spring 2026/2027 collections.”

The fair’s expanded exhibit hall featured carefully curated sustainable suppliers, addressing growing industry demand for responsible sourcing options that meet both performance and environmental standards.

“This event has become non-negotiable in my sourcing calendar,” said Cassia Lewis Cameron from Patagonia, “Boasting some of the most advanced and sustainable suppliers in our industry, the pre-vetted supplier base saves us countless hours in qualification processes — providing direct access to innovation partners we can trust, even when global logistics present challenges.”

Exhibiting company, YKK USA’s John Holiday said, “Functional Fabric Fair gives us an opportunity to have a lot of meetings and not only with other suppliers we work with, but also a lot of brand and designer meetings. We got a lot done in a short amount of time.

Between supplier meetings, attendees explored a wide range of immersive, informative and tactile sourcing and product discovery in specialized areas, including:

  • AATCC Textile Test Zone featured live testing demonstrations providing insights into standardized fabric evaluations.
  • Bodywear Collective, sponsored by The LYCRA Co., this new area showcased the latest fabrications for underwear, swimwear, shapewear, wellness and seamless activewear in addition to a Smoothie Bar for refreshments.
  • Innovation Zone spotlighted emerging technologies and next-gen materials.
  • Wool Forum debuted this year, the forum underscored wool’s performance and sustainability benefits.’Sustainability Lounge, served as a hub for sustainable material innovations and collaborations.
  • Trend Forum highlighted twelve essential fabric categories curated with a sustainability lens.
  • Outdoor Recreation Archive celebrated the history and evolution of outdoor apparel in partnership with Utah State University.
  • Media Lounge a place to recharge and connect with influential media.
  • Italian Bar, sponsored by Kingwhale, provided a space to connect and enjoy Italian delights.

These thoughtfully designed spaces fostered meaningful connections between suppliers and brands while providing attendees with crucial market intelligence and hands-on experience with innovative materials, complementing the event’s robust educational programming.
Education

The sold-out Day 0 Sustainability Workshop hosted more than 230 industry professionals, an increase from 2024, and was led by industry expert Jill Dumain of Fractal CSOs. Sponsored by Hyosung, the workshop opened the day before the exhibit hall opened and provided actionable insights on material traceability, addressing a critical business need as brands face increasing regulatory and consumer pressure regarding supply chain transparency. Attendees participated in in-depth presentations and discussions that set the tone for a sustainability-forward event.

“The Day 0 workshop sparked critical conversations that will influence how our industry approaches innovation and accountability,” McCullough noted. “It brought together the voices, discussions and ideas that will lead us into the future.”

From April 15–16, Expert Talks took place on the show floor. Sponsored by AATCC, more than 10 sessions featured thought leaders addressing the latest in textile technology, case studies and sustainability solutions.

Events & Networking

Industry professionals and students gathered to gain valuable business connections, new resources and inspiration at these events and activations:

  • Design Lab Live which featured sustainable designer and Project Runway alum Kelley Dempsey, who crafted a one-of-a-kind jacket live using materials from exhibitors FLYTEC, Pontetorto and YKK.
  • Book Signing with Zoë Hong offered attendees a chance to connect with the author of Fashion School in a Book.
  • Sustainability Lounge Guided Tours, led by Stewart Sheppard, gave deeper insights into sustainable sourcing solutions.
  • Events, including a Happy Hour sponsored by CovationBio, Coffee Igloo sponsored by Thermore, and After-Hours Networking at Spirit of 77 sponsored by Nextex and co-sponsors Brookwood and Duraflex enhanced relationship-building and networking.

“I came across this event working for athletic brand which aligns with the products we sell,” noted attendee, Shiva Nadjm of Alo Yoga. First-time attendee and designer Daisy Pellett added, “There was a lot of professionals and I got to talk to so many people, make connections, and look forward to coming year after year again!”

McCullough concluded, “As global supply chains continue to evolve in complexity, Functional Fabric Fair has solidified its position as a vital industry gathering that delivers measurable business value by bringing together the right partners, insights and innovations at a critical moment for the performance textile sector.”

Save the Date for 2025-2026 events:
New York Summer: July 21-23, 2025 (Day 0 Sustainability Workshop: July 21)
Portland Fall: November 11-13, 2025 (Day 0 Sustainability Workshop: Nov. 11)
NEW! Orlando Winter (Co-Located with the PGA Show): January 21-22, 2026

Posted April 22, 2025

Source: Functional Fabric Fair

Cone Denim Launches 2025 Sustainability Report

GREENSBORO, N.C. — April 22, 2025 — Cone Denim®, a denim innovator for more than 130 years, is pleased to release its 2025 Sustainability Report. Within the report, Cone reflects upon its sustainable progress over the previous year and discusses metric goals set by parent company Elevate Textiles that it aims to achieve by 2030.

The report follows the theme of Compounding Our Future, a play-on-words message derived from the company’s Cone3D program, a research and design incubator for technical product development that focuses on new technologies and innovations. In addition to highlighting sustainable milestones, the report discusses how Cone’s actions “compound” to create the foundation for a more sustainable future.

The 2025 Sustainability Report highlights 2024 achievements across Cone Denim including:

  • Achieved 2025 goals in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and absolute water consumption;
  • Launched Cone’s first solar panel installation at its Jiaxing, China, facility;
  • Honored the five-year anniversary with fiber and source tracing partner Oritain; and
  • Completed multiple design and development collaborations.

“Looking back on 2024, I am incredibly proud of the progress Cone Denim has made in sustainability,” stated Cone Denim President Steve Maggard. “I celebrated 30 years with Cone this year, and being able to witness and shape the impact we have had has been a gift. In 2024, we launched our first solar project, had incredible industry shaping collaborations, and exceeded several sustainability goals.”

Through themes of Denim Made Responsibly, Design for the Planet, and Develop for the Future, Cone aims to educate its customers, suppliers, and vendor partners alike on the cross-functionality synergy that allows the company to reach and surpass its sustainability targets. Maggard believes that these efforts allow Cone to maintain its leadership as a sustainable denim supplier.

“My hope for the remainder of 2025 is that our customers and suppliers continue to look to Cone Denim as a leader in sustainability,” added Maggard. “When you think of Cone, I hope you think ‘transparent’, ‘traceable’, and ‘trustworthy’. We invest in sustainability every day and are never satisfied with the status quo.”

To read the full Sustainability Report, visit  https://conedenim.com/home/sustainability/.

Posted: April 22, 2025

Source: Cone Denim / Elevate Textiles, Inc.

S&S Activewear Strengthens Commercial Leadership Team With Three Senior Appointments

BOLINGBROOK, Ill. — April 22, 2025 — S&S Activewear, a technology-enabled distributor of apparel and accessories in North America, announced the appointment of three senior executives to strengthen its commercial leadership team: Jim Sturgell as senior vice president of sales, Nick Blannin as senior vice president of merchandising, and Bill Topf as senior vice president of commercial strategy and operations.

“These strategic appointments represent a pivotal investment in our commercial leadership team as we continue to transform our business,” said Toby Whitmoyer, chief commercial officer at S&S Activewear. “Jim, Nick and Bill are bolstering our organization with decades of combined leadership experience. They are each known for their creativity, deep commitment to team and company performance, and fostering lasting relationships with customers.”

Sturgell joins S&S Activewear with more than 30 years of experience in the foodservice industry, most recently serving as executive vice president and chief commercial officer at US Foods, one of the largest foodservice distributors in the U.S. with more than $38 billion in revenue. In his new role, Sturgell will lead the sales team to deliver on sales plans, build deeper customer partnerships and drive a transparent, accountable and empowered sales culture.

Blannin brings extensive experience in merchandising and building apparel brands globally across e-commerce, retail and wholesale. He most recently served as vice president of global merchandising at Under Armour and previously worked in merchandising at Abercrombie & Fitch. In his new role, Blannin will lead the merchandising team to shape a competitive product assortment strategy, leverage product choices to drive customer engagement and build effective relationships with mill partners.

Topf joins S&S Activewear with deep experience as both a management consultant at Booz Allen & Hamilton and in senior leadership roles at Diageo, where he held several senior vice president positions in commercial strategy, planning and analytics. As senior vice president of commercial strategy and operations at S&S Activewear, Topf will build efficiencies across the commercial team while streamlining operations and driving sustainable growth.

Posted: April 22, 2025

Source: S&S Activewear

Freudenberg Performance Materials Unveils Versatile Innovative Fine Denier Spunbond Nonwovens For Applications In Construction, Filtration, Coating And Other Industries

WEINHEIM, Germany — April 22, 2025 — The unique fine filament nonwoven technology from Freudenberg Performance Materials (Freudenberg) is made from a wide variety of polymers and blends using mono or bico fibers. The high flexibility and broad customization options provide benefits in a wide range of markets and applications — from roofing membranes to liquid filtration, as well as specific applications such as dehumidification products and artificial turf.

Examples of PET fine denier spunbond nonwovens from Freudenberg Performance Materials.

Freudenberg’s innovative fine denier spunbond materials rely on flexible manufacturing capabilities, which enable a high level of customization. They can be made of PET, PE or PP, not only as 100 percent composition but also in many different combinations, e.g. PET/PE, PET/coPET or PET/mPP, using mono or bico fibers with titer ranging from 2.5 to 3 dtex. The material weight spans 17 to 140 gsm. The nonwovens are strongly bonded thanks to thermal bonding provided either by flat calendering or point sealing. The technology enables lightweight solutions with high tensile and tear strength, as well as a smooth and uniform surface.

Special advantages for the construction industry

Ideally suited for construction applications such as roofing & facade membranes, vapor barriers and house wrappings, Freudenberg lightweight fine denier nonwovens complement the well-known Terbond®, Texbond® and Colback® solutions for the construction market. They deliver mechanical strength and, in particular, a high nail tear strength as required by the market. Moreover, they have high UV and temperature resistance and stability thanks to the PET composition.

Filtration applications

PET/PE fine denier spunbond for desiccant bags from Freudenberg Performance Materials.

The fine denier technology is also marketed under the Filtura® brand, specifically suited for liquid filtration, e.g. coolants & lubricants. The technology provides high efficiency and a regular surface, as well as new capabilities with PET-PA and PET-PE nonwovens. Support media applications for glass fiber, nano and activated carbon also benefit from the lightweight fine denier nonwovens as protective layers.

Efficient converting and high durability for packaging and coating

The fully synthetic PET/PE fine denier materials are ideal for packaging applications such as desiccant bags and other dehumidifier products. They enable the efficient and fast production of such pouches due to their exceptional hot sealing capabilities, with no need for chemical binders or additional treatments. Freudenberg’s technology provides high strength, high abrasion resistance and high durability, allowing for long-lasting desiccant bags.

In the coating industry, too, Freudenberg’s fine denier spunbonds contribute to enhanced process efficiency. The materials are chemically resistant and have good thermal stability. High-quality coating results can be achieved by using these materials as coating substrates, thanks to their smooth and even surface. The material properties can be customized for coating, laminating and concealing applications thanks to different combinations of polymers, fiber types and bonding technologies. For example, a specific very lightweight flat bonded variant of the material is an ideal coating substrate for cold wax depilatory strips, providing the necessary high mechanical strength and material flexibility.

Other applications for Freudenberg’s fine filament technology are crop covers in agriculture, decoration applications and other industrial or consumer applications.

Posted: April 22, 2025

Source: Freudenberg Performance Materials Holding GmbH

Elevate Textiles Releases 2025 Sustainability Report

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — April 22, 2025 — Elevate Textiles — a global provider of advanced, high-quality products and mission critical textile solutions — is pleased to release its 2025 Sustainability Report. Elevate and its distinguished brands — American & Efird (A&E), Burlington, Cone Denim, Gütermann and Safety Components — shared updates and progress on sustainability commitments, 2025 and 2030 goals, and partnerships.

Within the report, Elevate outlines recent actions guided by its Ten Threads of Sustainability, an internal program that shapes the company’s sustainable decision-making to best support the achievement of its 2025 and 2030 goals and increase transparency and traceability across our programs. The report shares the company’s participation and leadership in industry collaborations and alignment with the UN Global Compact’s Ten Principles, specifically highlighting Elevate’s actions that directly support UN Sustainable Development Goal commitments.

“I am excited to share our annual Sustainability Report, in which we provide detailed insights into our ongoing efforts and progress to keep sustainability a core part of who we are and what we do,” said Jimmy Summers, chief sustainability officer, Elevate Textiles. “Elevate and its brands view sustainability holistically, and our success comes from the amazing teams who initiate innovative projects and operational improvements and help us share data and knowledge across the company.”

The 2025 Sustainability Report highlights 2024 achievements across Elevate and its brands, including:

  • Achieved 2025 goals in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and absolute water consumption;
  • Achieved best safety performance in over a decade globally;
  • Celebrated opening of new facility in Bangladesh, located on preserved green space developed by Korean Export Processing Zone and designed to focus on more sustainable, innovative thread products; and
  • Launched Elevate’s largest solar project to date and announced additional installation for 2025.

“I am extremely proud of our efforts and the actions of our employees to execute key processes and sustainable innovations, which allow us to create more sustainable threads and fabrics and push new boundaries for our customers,” said Jeffrey P. Pritchett, Elevate’s CEO and member of the board. “We look to build on this momentum as we strive to further our social responsibility and environmental leadership.”

To read the full Sustainability Report, visit Elevate Textile’s website at elevatetextiles.com/sustainability.

Posted: April 22, 2025

Source: Elevate Textiles

Dubai: DOMOTEX Middle East 2025 Kicks Off With Global Innovations

DUBAI — April 22, 2025 — DOMOTEX Middle East 2025 has officially opened at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), reaffirming its status as the region’s leading trade platform for the global flooring industry. The event brings together 100 exhibitors from around the world and reinforces Dubai’s ongoing emergence as a global hub for innovation, design excellence, and international commerce.

The three-day exhibition gathers manufacturers, designers, distributors, and decision-makers to explore cutting-edge flooring solutions, discover future-forward design concepts, and engage in strategic dialogue across various industries. From sustainable flooring materials to artisanal craftsmanship, DOMOTEX Middle East offers a comprehensive overview of trends shaping the next generation of floor coverings.

The event was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Land Department (DLD), whose presence underscored its growing importance in the regional business landscape and marked its successful return to Dubai for a second consecutive year. He toured the exhibition halls, meeting participants from the international flooring industry.

Now in its second year since its regional relaunch, DOMOTEX Middle East 2025 is capitalizing on its growing momentum. The show continues to serve as a critical junction point for the flooring industry, drawing stakeholders from real estate, hospitality, architecture, and retail. Its return signals Dubai’s strategic role as a bridge between East and West and a convening place for cross-border collaboration.

Speaking at the inauguration, His Excellency Eng. Marwan bin Ghalita said: “Dubai continues to attract leading international exhibitions that drive economic growth and reinforce its global standing. As a city bridging continents, Dubai empowers industries by facilitating meaningful international engagement and accelerating the exchange of ideas. Events like DOMOTEX Middle East gather top-tier exhibitors from around the globe, advancing key sectors such as construction, real estate and design, which are pillars of our long-term development vision. By hosting this event, Dubai reaffirms its position as a hub for innovation, investment and cross-border collaboration.”

A strong lineup of international exhibitors is creating buzz across the exhibition floor. Notable participants include Heritage Carpets, Abu Dhabi National Carpet Factory, Standard Carpet, Tuftco, Nirmal International, Solomon Carpet, Farrahi, Almas Kavir Carpet, Royal Gold Carpet, Finex, Leyli Carpet, and Lexon. Each company is unveiling products that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary techniques, offering immersive displays and interactive presentations that speak to the evolving needs of modern buyers.

Sonia Wedell-Castellano, Global Director of DOMOTEX at Deutsche Messe AG, stated: “DOMOTEX Middle East serves as a catalyst for industry collaboration, design innovation, and commercial growth. The strong global turnout underscores Dubai’s position as a driving force in international trade and design. It highlights the Middle East’s rising influence in setting the agenda for the flooring sector. This year’s event reflects the industry’s momentum and the region’s increasing relevance in shaping its future.”

Amir Ghanbarinia, Managing Director of Heritage Carpets, said: “DOMOTEX Middle East provides an unparalleled platform for us to engage with a knowledgeable and discerning audience. The response we’ve seen today has been incredibly encouraging, with visitors showing deep appreciation for our handmade carpets’ artistry and cultural significance. We are especially proud to present a museum-quality early 20th-century piece reflecting the finest Persian craftsmanship traditions. Our presence here also reinforces our commitment to sustainability, which aligns with the UAE’s long-term vision. We are working towards a zero carbon footprint across our operations, and it is rewarding to see that this message resonates strongly with the audience in Dubai.”

In addition to the exhibits, DOMOTEX Middle East 2025 offers a platform for networking and thought leadership. Attendees include architects, interior designers, procurement heads, contractors, and government stakeholders, who use the opportunity to explore new partnerships, gain insights into evolving market demands, and identify future opportunities. The event’s ability to connect the entire flooring value chain is part of what makes it a vital business and innovation hub.

With its doors open until 24 April, DOMOTEX Middle East 2025 is poised to deliver a high-impact experience for exhibitors and visitors. The event showcases the latest in flooring technology and design and reinforces Dubai’s growing reputation as a centre for global trade, creativity, and industrial progress.

For more information on DOMOTEX Middle East and detailed insights into the exhibitions and participants, please visit: https://www.domotex.de/en/about-us/domotex-worldwide/domotex-middle-east/

Posted: April 22, 2025

Source: DOMOTEX Worldwide / Deutsche Messe

Sweet Living Group Secures Strong U.S. Patent Portfolio for EcoZinc® Technology to Drive Sustainable Innovation in Textiles

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — April 18, 2025 — Sweet Living Group, a pioneer in sustainable material innovation, is proud to announce significant advancements in the protection and commercialization of its EcoZinc® technology with the expansion of its U.S.-based patent portfolio. These patents offer robust intellectual property protection across a diverse range of applications in fiber and fabric development. This protection enables the creation of safer and more environmentally friendly materials for the textile industry.

The EcoZinc technology platform — focused on using eco-friendly, zinc-based compounds in fabrics — has now been secured by 18 U.S. patents, affirming Sweet Living Group’s commitment to advancing clean and functional textiles rooted in American innovation. Considering recent regulatory and technological shifts, our U.S. patents are an essential safeguard for domestic advancements in sustainable materials and functional fabrics.

Jason Rosenberg, M.D, co-founder and Director of Advanced Technology at Sweet Living Group

“We believe strongly in aligning protection with purpose,” said Jason Rosenberg, M.D, co-founder and director of Advanced Technology at Sweet Living Group. “Our U.S. patents not only validate the uniqueness of EcoZinc, but they also give our partners the confidence to develop next-generation textile solutions that are healthier for people and the planet.”

Sweet Living Group is currently working with a growing network of industry partners to bring EcoZinc-enabled fibers and fabrics to market — with applications spanning apparel, healthcare, bedding, and technical textiles. The company also welcomes collaboration from entities that share its vision of sustainable innovation.

As part of this strategy, Sweet Living Group is actively exploring strategic partnerships, including the potential sale or licensing of its patent portfolio, to organizations that can help accelerate the development and deployment of this vital technology.

“In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and health, EcoZinc represents a transformative opportunity. Whether through licensing, joint development, or acquisition, we are open to working with like-minded partners who see the future in what we have created,” Dr. Rosenberg added.

Posted: April 21, 2025

Source: The Sweet Living Group

ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 Launches Online Visitor Registration

SINGAPORE — March 27, 2025 — Online visitor registration for ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 which will be held from October 28-31, 2025, is now open with early registrants enjoying a 50 percent discount from the onsite rates.

Visitors who purchase their badge online will enjoy early bird rates of S$50 for a four-day badge and S$25 for a one-day badge. These attractive rates are available until 28 September at www.itmaasiasingapore.com.

After the early bird phase, visitors can register with standard online rates at S$60 for a four-day badge and S$30 for a one-day badge. Onsite rates during the exhibition are S$100 and S$50 for a four-day and one-day badge respectively. All rates include the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Billed as The Leading Textile Technology Exhibition Driving Regional Growth, ITMA ASIA +CITME, Singapore 2025 is expected to attract visitors from the surrounding textile and garment production hubs.

Alex Zucchi, president of CEMATEX said: “Textile manufacturers from South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East are anticipating the exhibition as a strategic platform to source advanced machinery solutions to help them optimise production efficiency, increase output volumes, and enhance product quality to meet growing market demands.”

Gu Ping, president of the China Textile Machinery Association (CTMA), elaborated: “As a premier trade exhibition, ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 highlights cutting-edge textile production solutions by leading technology owners. By facilitating targeted business discussions, it enables textile machinery manufacturers and industry professionals to forge regional collaboration opportunities, working together to shape a smarter future for the textile industry.”

The chairman of the Indonesian Textile Association (API) Jemmy Kartiwa Sastraatmadja who also serves as chairman of the ASEAN Textile Industry Federation (AFTEX), agreed: “The joint exhibition in Singapore is a useful platform for the textile industry in ASEAN. The modern technology on display will help contribute to the competitiveness of the textile and garment industry.”

Jemmy added, “It is important for exhibitions such as this to be held regularly. Updating technology and global trends must be a consideration for the sustainable future of the textile and garment industry. In line with the global textile industry that increasingly prioritizes environmentally friendly production methods, there must also be a focus on how to overcome production waste and garment waste.”

Exhibitor stand allocation

According to the show owners, CEMATEX (the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers), China Textile Machinery Association (CTMA) and the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT (CCPIT TEX), over 770 exhibitors from 33 countries and regions have been allotted stand space at the Singapore Expo.

The exhibitor list will be available on the website and mobile app in June. For the latest updates, visit www.itmaasiasingapore.com.

Posted: April 18, 2025

Source: CEMATEX, CTMA & CCPIT TEX

AAFA Reacts To USTR Determination On Section 301 Shipbuilding Proposal

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) warns of serious consequences over today’s announcement by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to implement steep new taxes on ships calling on U.S. ports as a result of the Section 301 investigation into China’s practices in the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors.

AAFA has actively opposed these measures. On March 24, AAFA testified at a hearing before the USTR Office and submitted comments opposing the proposal. Additionally, AAFA conducted a study determining that the proposed fees would harm U.S. farmers, workers, and the broader economy.

Today’s action imposes a phased fee structure targeting Chinese vessel operators, Chinese vessel owners, and Chinese built vessels. In addition to the fees, USTR proposes additional tariffs ranging from 20 percent to 100 percent on equipment crucial to transportation networks: containers, chassis, and ship-to-shore cranes. These fees and tariffs will reduce U.S. trade resulting in losses for American businesses and will further raise costs for American consumers.

“We are deeply concerned that the newly announced port fees and shipping mandates are destined to have devastating consequences for American workers, consumers, and exporters. These measures are driving up shipping costs, shrinking GDP, and reducing U.S. exports. When ocean carriers raise rates, American families will pay the price through higher costs and growing product shortages, at a time when they can least afford.” said Nate Herman, AAFA Senior Vice President of Policy.

“We fully support strengthening the U.S. maritime industry, but penalizing shippers for not using American-flagged or built vessels, when they cost up to five times more and remain in limited supply, is counterproductive. It is telling that the administration made this announcement after markets closed today, and when the markets won’t open again until Monday, masking a decision that is bad for the economy – bad for American farmers, bad for American manufacturers, bad for American businesses, and bad for hardworking American families.”

Posted: April 18, 2025

Source: The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA)

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