The latest Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition that took place against a backdrop of uncertainty in the global textile industry pleasantly surprised the organizers by the relative optimism from exhibitors and buyers by the end of the fair.

It is reasonable to say the industry in China is going through a period of change but it is far from in decline, with the development and growth of this fair over the last year a strong indicator of this. With overall growth remaining above 6% for the foreseeable future, this will still present many opportunities for overseas suppliers in China.

The visitor figure rose once again, the third consecutive increase since the Spring Edition’s move to Shanghai in 2014, according to organizers.

The new record set was over 71,000 buyers (which includes buyers from the concurrent Yarn Expo, CHIC and PH Value fairs who also entered the Intertextile Shanghai halls), a roughly 13% increase compared to 2015 (62,649).

Ms Wendy Wen, Senior General Manager, Messe Frankfurt (HK) said that they weren’t expecting such strong growth in the buyer figure this year given the macroeconomic climate, however the more than 500 extra exhibitors (total: 3,155 from 27 countries and regions) would have played a part in the increase.

Across various product categories, exhibitors in the International Hall were cautious yet positive about the Chinese and wider textile industry in the coming year.

Mr Jose Maria Loren from Spain’s Luca Cuccolini, an accessories supplier, commented that the company’s regular buyers had already placed orders and it had received many new enquiries as well. They don’t think the economy will affect them much. This exhibition is good to attract buyers not just from China, but also Asia, so it helps them to sell their products throughout the region.

Mr Aris Arakelian, Commercial Manager of French company Malhia Kent was also optimistic about the future said that they received one big order and a few others on the first day of the fair, and their turnover in China has been very good.

Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics being held in spring and autumn each year in Shanghai, provides an excellent opportunity for overseas suppliers to build stronger relationships in the region and increase their presence in the market.

The 23rd China International Trade Fair for Apparel Fabrics and Accessories will take place during Oct.11-13, 2016 at National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) (NECC).