For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on tri-monthly basis.
根据 Fortune Business Insights 的报告,2022 年价值 944 亿美元的全球棉纱市场预计将从 2023 年的 828.1 亿美元扩大到 2028 年的 1006.8 亿美元左右,预计 CAGR 为 4% % 在估计期间。 估值上涨的原因被认为是影响成品纺织品质量的纱线的独特特性。
在纱线类型中,估计普梳纱部分在此期间显示出相当大的扩张,这是由于该产品用于制造羊毛线的增加使用。在估计期内,服装部门也将实现合理增长,这可归因于电子商务渗透率的提高、可支配收入的增加等。
为国内纺织行业的利益而增加的政府举措被视为推动棉纱市场增长的关键因素。 这些举措侧重于纺织行业的技能发展、基础设施建设和部门发展。然而,由于与合成纱线价格较低相比的价格竞争,行业扩张可能会受到阻碍。
亚太地区的棉纱市场份额预计在预测期内将大幅增长,这可以归因于人口增长和消费者支出增加对产品的需求不断增加。然而,据估计,欧洲市场在预测期内将实现有利可图的增长速度。 这是由多年来不断增长的原材料需求和产业用纺织品的兴起所推动。
全球阻燃服装市场 2023-2027 预计在未来五年内将增长 100104 万美元,在预测期内以 4.9% 的复合年增长率加速增长。
阻燃 (FR) 服装是技术纺织品领域的一部分,该领域是全球的阳光产业。
市场研究解决方案 Reportlinker 的“2023-2027 年全球阻燃 tecApparel 市场”报告提供了全面分析、市场规模和预测、趋势、增长驱动因素和挑战,以及涵盖约 25 家供应商的分析。
本研究确定可穿戴技术是未来几年推动阻燃服装市场增长的主要原因之一。 此外,通过零售和在线渠道不断增长的分销以及新兴经济体不断增长的需求将导致市场需求巨大。
一些领先的阻燃服装公司是 3M Co.、Ansell Ltd.、Arco Ltd.、Carhartt Inc.、Carrington Textiles Ltd.、Cintas Corp.、DEVA FM。 sro、DuPont de Nemours Inc.、Frham Safety Products Inc.、Honeywell International Inc.、Hultafors Group AB、Hydrowear BV、Kimberly Clark Corp. 等。
根据 IMARC Group 的一份报告,2022 年印度的纺织品回收市场规模达到 3.087 亿美元,预计到 2028 年将达到 3.75 亿美元,2023-2023 年期间的增长率(CAGR)为 3.4% 2028.
纺织品回收是对旧衣服、纤维废料、边角料等进行再加工和再利用的方法。这些材料通常来自地毯、轮胎、家具、鞋类、废弃衣服、毛巾和床单。
纺织品回收有许多环境和经济效益,包括降低水和土地污染水平、限制化学染料的使用、优化能源消耗、最大限度地减少对原生纤维的依赖等等。
模拟印度纺织品回收市场的关键因素包括对生态完整性服装的需求不断增加、可持续时尚的新兴趋势以及消费者对生产新服装对环境的不利影响的认识不断提高。
由回收纺织品、塑料和有机原材料制成的生态服装越来越受欢迎,这进一步促进了这一增长,这有助于限制浪费并最大限度地减少垃圾填埋场空间。
政府政策和非政府组织计划以及纺织废料数量的增加和回收技术的改进也在推动回收市场,除了各种技术进步和回收过程中日益自动化以及领先制造商的广泛研发之外。
2021 年全球智能和互动纺织品市场估计为 21.476 亿美元,预计到 2030 年估值将达到约 164 亿美元,从 2022 年到 2030 年的复合年增长率为 25.6%。智能和交互式纺织品是与边缘计算、云数据、人工智能 (AI) 和蓝牙低功耗 (BLE) 等技术集成的织物,可以监控和交流穿戴者的数据。
根据 Global Market Insights Inc. 发布的报告,在研发方面的投资激增,以制造能够在战争情况下提供伪装效果、智能感知和响应能力的装备精良的士兵制服,再加上面料中的智能技术,以实现更轻的负载和更少的设备,促进了智能和交互式纺织品在军事和国防应用中的使用。
军事用途的智能纺织品能够监测穿戴者的表现,并配备 GPS 系统、传感器和活动跟踪器,提供多种属性,即绝缘性能、防弹保护和防水面料。在这些因素的加速下,预计从 2022 年到 2030 年,军事和国防应用领域将以超过 28.5% 的复合年增长率大幅增长。
在区域格局中,预计到 2030 年,欧洲的智能和互动市场将出现大规模扩张,占据约 28% 的行业份额。
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on tri-monthly basis.
JELLYFISH SWIMWEAR(Code: MT0123-01)
30 PANMURE ST
ROUSE HILL
2155 NSW
AUSTRALIA
PRODUCT: BATIK APPAREL
EMPERIL-COMERCIO INTERNACIONAL S.A. (Code: MT0123-02)
RUA NOSSA SENHORA ASSUNCAO 1
ESPRELA – TROFA
4785-177
PORTUGAL
PRODUCT: POLYESTER FABRICS
MAXI IMPORT AS (Code: MT0123-03)
BJORNERUDVEIEN 15
1266 OSLO
NORWAY
PRODUCT: UNISEX APPAREL
本会不负任何交易后果。
欲索取联络 ,请联络本会办事处,并注明代号。
Fact.MR 发布的关于纺织染料市场的最新见解预测,到 2031 年,该市场的估值将超过 80 亿美元。快速发展的时尚趋势正在刺激对时尚服装的需求,促使制造商采用新的色彩组合和设计,推动销售,预计 到 2031 年以超过 6% 的复合年增长率推动市场扩张该市场在过去 5 年取得了令人瞩目的收益,到 2022 年底接近 60 亿美元。在此期间,年增长率约为 5%。 制造商预计将主要关注亚洲市场,印度和中国等主要国家将成为利润丰厚的增长中心。根据印度品牌资产基金会 (IBEF) 的数据,印度纺织业在 2018-19 财年占工业产值的 7%,预计到 2027 年估值将超过 230 亿美元。同样,根据纺织世界的数据,中国的化纤生产 超过 5000 万吨,占全球产量的 66% 以上。 这种趋势正在激励知名企业加大对这些市场的涉足力度。
市场研究的要点
• 对直接纺织染料的需求保持高位,到 2031 年将超过 20 亿美元
• 到 2031 年,活性纺织染料将以约 7% 的复合年增长率实现最快增长
• 预计粘胶纤维染料的复合年增长率约为 6%
• 涤纶纺织染料增长迅猛,复合年增长率约为 7%
• 美国纺织染料销售额可能会增加,2021 年达到近 7 亿美元
• 到 2031 年,印度、韩国和澳大利亚的总收入将略高于 6 亿美元
• 中国纺织染料领域的收入将超过 20 亿美元
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on tri-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on tri-monthly basis.
MAXI IMPORT AS (Code: MT0322-01)
BJORNERUDVEIEN 15
1266 OSLO
NORWAY
PRODUCT: UNISEX APPAREL
TARGET CONTRACT SRL (Code: MT0322-02)
VIA MONTE ROSA 27
LIMBIATE (MI)
20812
ITALY
PRODUCT: WOVEN FABRIC
SIAM BUSINESS & TRADING CO., LTD. (Code: MT0322-03)
1011-5 SONGWAT RD.KHWANG SAMPHANTHAWONG,
KHET SAMPHANTHAWONG, BANGKOK
10100 THAILAND
PRODUCT: LADIES APPARELS
CHEMISETTE (Code: MT0322-04)
16 DE SEPTIEMBRE NO.621
MONTERREY NUEVO LEON
MEXICO
PRODUCT: LADIES APPARELS, LADIES UNDERGARMENTS
根据 Future Market Insights 的最新研究,尽管 2020 年增长放缓,但在 2021-2031 年的预测期内,全球二手服装市场销售额预计将以 11.2% 的复合年增长率增长。
2021 年,衬衫和 T 恤占据了 29% 的市场份额,原因是随着职业女性劳动力不断扩大,消费者偏好产生了变化。
该报告进一步指出,由于存在大量较低的社会经济消费者基础,巴基斯坦占南亚二手服装销售额的 40% 以上,而危地马拉在拉丁美洲领先,在预产期内占据超过 30% 的价值份额。
这一增长归因于终端消费者生活方式的变化,加上工业化、城市化、经济发展和全球化,在过去十年加速了时装业的销售,特别是在发展中的国家和地区。电子商务也改变了购物体验,超过 60% 的人选择通过在线平台购买产品、服务和获取商品。该报告进一步提到,ThredUP 和 Poshmark 等公司的存在将在未来几年推动对廉价和生态替代新衣服的需求。 在线分销渠道的扩张也将是兆头。消费者对在线转售平台的认知度不断提高,快速增长的在线初创企业提供二手品牌、设计师商品和租赁民族服饰,这进一步推动了二手服装市场的发展。
中国产业用纺织品行业在两年内增长了 12%。根据国家统计局的数据,2021 年 1 月至 2021 年 9 月,非织造布和帘子布产量分别下降 1.01% 和上升 29%。过去两年,产业用纺织品行业的营业收入下降了 14.74%,相比之下,前两年的平均涨幅为 10.78%。在前两年平均增长 14.12% 之后,他们的整体收入同比下降了 63.78%。营业利润率为5.25%,比上年下降7.11个百分点。 31家上市企业第三季度营业收入下降1.15%,整体利润下降33.59%。例如,运输车辆用纺织品和过滤纺织品领域的上市企业增长强劲。
前三季度,非织造布、特种纱、麻绳(索)、丝带出口增长6.91%。非织造布出口下降了 4.52%。出口量增长8.06%。工业用纺织品出口额增长39.74%。化纤无纺布防护服(含医用防护服)出口下降79.81%。
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on tri-monthly basis.
PT.SHAILENDRA TSHAI INDONESIA (Code: MT0222-01)
UDANG 3 MULTI KAVLING A 03/03/KEL, KADU
KEC.CURUG, TANGERANG, BANTEN 15810
15810 TANGERANG INDONESIA
INDONESIA, REPUBLIC OF
PRODUCT: BABIES APPAREL
COMERCIAL COPELEC SA (Code: MT0222-02)
AV 18 DE SEPTIEMBRE 688
CHILLAN CHILLAN
CHILE
PRODUCT: LADIES APPARELS
LUCKY STAR WEAVING CO., LTD. (Code: MT0222-03)
33/8, 33/11 MU4, OMYAI, SAMPRAN, NAKORNPATHOM
73160 THAILAND
PRODUCT: YARNS
2020 年全球产业用纺织品市场规模为 1903.3 亿美元,预计到 2028 年将达到 2858.8 亿美元,从 2021 年到 2028 年的复合年增长率为 5.15%。
Verified Market Research 的一份报告称,由于全球人口以惊人的速度增长,预计纺织品的增长将在预测期内激增,从而导致采用现代技术来促进成果。
该报告按材料(天然纤维、合成聚合物、金属、矿物、再生纤维)、工艺(机织、针织、无纺布)、应用(运输纺织品、医疗和卫生纺织品、工业产品和组件)分析了产业用纺织品市场) 和地理。
由于跨境需求高,技术纺织品的出口活动增加,有利于市场增长。
然而,与传统的低成本替代品相比,该市场的增长主要是由于产品成本高而受到阻碍。这主要是由于用于制造这些技术纺织品或在制造过程中使用的原材料成本上涨。
在全球范围内,公司正在扩大产业用纺织品领域;例如,去年,土工建筑材料制造商NAUE推出了可生物降解的无纺土工布Secutex Green。
Freudenberg Performance Materials Apparel 推出了适用于 Freudenberg Active Range 中所有类型运动服的新型高弹性和透气衬垫和胶带。
同样,全球科技集团 Freudenberg 收购了总部位于英国的 Low & Bonar PLC,这是一家生产技术纺织品的公司,收购金额未披露。
印度政府也准备通过 PLI 计划吸引对这一产品类别的投资。
根据最新报告,到 2027 年底,全球自适应服装市场价值预计将达到 4087.6 亿,复合年增长率为 4.1%。
适应性服装是专门为有不同程度残疾的人设计的服装,包括后天残疾、先天缺陷、先天性发育障碍和其他身体残疾。专门为满足这些群体的需求而设计的服装可以为在英国生活的许多人提供一种赋权感并提高生活质量。不幸的是,对于有学习障碍的人来说,适应性服装通常是有这种类型障碍的人最不希望购买或穿着的。但是,有一些选项可以为这些人在款式、合身性和功能方面提供更多选择,使他们能够购买外观精美且功能良好的物品。紧身裤、紧身衣、袜子和裤子都是适应性服装,适合那些可能难以每天走路、说话或执行普通任务的人。紧身裤和紧身裤是最容易穿脱的可穿戴服装类型之一,这要归功于它们紧贴身体的方式,并且可以根据个人穿着者的体型和尺寸进行塑造。适应性服装(例如这些特殊类型的服装)采用高质量、耐用的材料制成,可抗撕裂、撕裂和褪色。
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on tri-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
Date | Event | Contact |
---|---|---|
02-04 Apr, 2020 | BIGFAB Bangladesh International Fabric & Yarn Expo in Chittagong, Bangladesh | RedCarpet365 Ltd. 283, 2nd floor, Road 19/C, New DOHS, Mohakhali, Dhaka, Bangladesh info@redcarpet365.com www.redcarpet365.com |
16-18 Nov, 2020 | International Apparel and Textile Fair in Dubai | Nihalani Events 19th Floor, Conrad Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE info@nihalanievents.com www.nihalanievents.com |
21-23 Apr, 2020 | Techtextil in Russia Moscow | Messe Frankfurt RUS O.O.O. Leningradsky Prospekt 39 A 125167 Moscow, Russian Federation Tel: +7 (4)95 6498775 Fax: +7 (4)95 6498785 info@russia.messefrankfurt.com www.messefrankfurt.ru |
12-14 May, 2020 | Techtextil North America Atlanta in Georgia, USA | Messe Frankfurt, Inc. 1600 Parkwood Circle, Suite 615 GA30339 Atlanta, USA Tel: +1 (4)04 7709848016 Fax: +1 (4)04 7709848023 info@usa.messefrankfurt.com www.usa.messefrankfurt.com |
18-20 June, 2020 | Intex South Asia Mumbai in India | Worldex India Exhibition & Promotion Pvt. Ltd. 309, Parvati Premises, Sun Mill Complex, Lower Parel (West), 400013 Mumbai, India Tel: +91 (0)22 40376700 Fax: +91 (0)22 24962297 operations@worldexindia.com www.worldexindia.com |
29-30 June,2020 | Spinexpo in Paris | Well Link Consultants Ltd. Regus, China Resources building – Unit 1201-1205,26 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong email: info@spinexpo.com |
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
As personal protection is now essential to everyday life, Cifra, an Italian manufacturing company, has designed and produced a new generation of garments with antiviral properties made with the exclusive Q-Skin yarn powered by Amni Virus-Bac Off, which guarantees permanent anti-viral activity and therefore protection from the risks of contamination.
The innovative yarn was developed in the research laboratories of the Rhodia-Solvay Group and is distributed by Fulgar, a made in Italy excellence and leader in the sector of high-tech and eco-sustainable yarns, which has been working alongside Cifra in the creation of avant-garde solutions for clothing for several seasons now.
This extraordinary polyamide yarn is effective against the proliferation of bacteria and the spreading of viruses, thanks to the antiviral and antibacterial agent permanently incorporated into its polymer matrix.
According to several qualified studies, viruses can survive up to at least two days on textile surfaces./p>
The electron affinity, together with proteins present in the external structure of viruses, causes this agent to prevent tissues from becoming a host surface for viruses and bacteria, thus helping to reduce the risk of contamination. The yarn’s antiviral properties have been tested by an independent laboratory following international textile protocols found in the ISO 18184 standard (standard for determining the antiviral activity of textile products).
The technical characteristic of this new yarn ensures that antiviral and antibacterial agents do not migrate onto the skin or into the environment. Unlike garments treated with dyeing finishes that have limited functionality and lose theirs with washing, the antiviral and antibacterial properties of Q-Skin polyamide powered by Amni Virus-Bac Off are permanent, which is an added benefit for garments in that they remain unchanged over time, confirming the sustainability of the production process
This special, soft, and easy to wash polyamide fibre also guarantees freshness and comfort, contributing to the thermal well-being of the wearer. WKS technology guarantees the practicality of seamless and warp-knit garments, truly unique in the sector, which is designed to offer differentiated functionality thanks to body-mapping.
In terms of sustainability, each garment is designed and produced in Italy with STEP and Oeko-tex certification.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
For further information or news, please refer to MKMA Newsletters which are circulated to members only and published on bi-monthly basis.
Malaysian Industrial Development Finance BHD (MIDF) is an agency of Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI).MIDF offers various Government Financing Assistance Programs in the form of soft loans to finance machinery and equipment, industrial and commercial property as well as working capital. This is availed to existing as well as new companies. Below is the Soft Loan Scheme for Automation and Modenisation (SLSAM) :
1. Land & building (factory or commercial lots) inclusive of renovation expenses;
2. Machinery & Equipment loans (inclusive commercial vehicles)
3. Purchase of software and computer peripherals related to the development of the automation system.
1. Eligibility:
• Companies incorporated under the Companies Act 1965 or Registration of Business Ordinance 1956;
• At least 60% equity held by Malaysians (individuals or corporates); and
• Possess a valid premises licence (if required, will be imposed in drawdown conditions)
2. Sectors:
• Manufacturing; or
• Services (excluding insurance & financial services).
3. Financing Amount:
• Minimum: RM50,000;
• Maximum: RM5.0 million
4. Percentage Financing
Fixed Assets
• Up to 90% of the cost for new assets
5. Repayment:
• Land and Building – up to 25 years including grace period of up to 2 years.
• Machinery and Equipment – up to 5 years including grace period of up to 1 year.
• IT Equipment – Up to 4 years including grace period of up to 1 year.
6. Interest Rates:
• 4 % per annum on yearly rest. (SMEs**)
• 5% per annum on yearly rest. (Non-SMEs)
** Definition of SME for Manufacturing sector : Annual sales turnover not exceeding RM50 million OR full time employees not exceeding 200 persons.
Documents are required for preliminary evaluation :
1. Company profiles;
2. Profiles of directors & shareholders;
3. Certified True Copy(ies) of Form 9, 24 & 49 of the company;
4. Copy of company’s Memorandum of Associations (M&A);
5. Certified True Copy of past 3 to 5 years Audited Financial Statement (if any);
6. Latest 2018 Management Accounts;
7. Quotation for the equipment to be purchased from 3 different suppliers(if any);
8. Details of the commercial property to be purchased (if any);
9. Copies of Current Account Statements for the past Six(6) months;
10. Latest 6 months Debtors & Creditors aging list; and
11. Copy of other banks’ Letter of Offer(s) (if any).
In the space of five years, Cambodia has climbed from being the tenth-largest supplier of clothing to the European Union to become the fifth-ranked supplier, behind China, Bangladesh, Turkey and India.
Cambodia’s garment exports to the EU grew by 14 percent in 2016 to reach €3.8 billion ($3.8 billion), putting the country ahead of Vietnam. Given the industry’s pace of growth, it is probable that Cambodia will overtake India within two years.
In 2016 Vietnam exported a total €3.2 billion ($3.6 billion) worth of garments, at a growth rate of 6.8 percent. Meanwhile, India exported a total of €5.6 billion ($6.3 billion) worth of garments last year with a negative growth rate of -0.7 percent.
Europe today takes up 43 percent of the Cambodian sector’s exports as opposed to 29 percent taken by the US market.
However, Cambodia’s push into the EU market was largely the result of preferential treatment under the “Everything But Arms” GSP agreement, which allows its garment products to enter the EU market duty-free. That preference is expected to end as Cambodia graduates out of Least Developed Country (LDC) status.
If this new ranking is confirmed by the United Nations, Cambodia will lose its status as LDC and will be excluded from preferential treatment. Cambodia will be allowed a grace period of about three years in order to adjust to its new status.
Competition from Vietnam
Another looming threat to the Kingdom’s garment sector is the implementation of the free trade agreement between the EU and Vietnam that is set to come into force by the end of this year, and which gradually reduces the current 12 percent import tariff to zero.
Cambodia must find ways to remain competitive.
The data of 10,975 stores of 56 companies associated with Japan Chain Stores Association (JCSA) showed the revenues clocked were 80,441.58 million yen in December ’20 which hovered around just 66,300 million yen in November ’20.
However, the revenues tumbled on Y-o-Y basis by 7.70 per cent as compared to the sales figures that were registered in December ’19.
Menswear clocked 13,874.30 million yen revenues during December ’20 which is 6.20 per cent more than the figures of November ’20, but it’s down by 14.50 per cent from December ’19.
Womenswear revenues valued 17,093.64 million yen in December ’20, with a marginal increase of 0.20 per cent on monthly note, while the contraction of 16 per cent was experienced on Y-o-Y basis.
All other types of clothing, including kidswear, rose massively by 35.30 per cent on M-o-M basis in December ’20 to hit 49,473.64 million yen. However, this value was still down on Y-o-y basis 2.10 per cent.
Vietnam and Indonesia remained the only countries which grew in swimwear exports to USA in November ’20 over November ’19.
Vietnam clocked US $ 19.14 million from its swimwear and related products’ shipment to USA, growing 32.79 per cent on Y-o-Y basis.
On the other hand, Indonesia shipped US $ 8.10 million worth of swimwear to USA in November ’20, marking 69.60 per cent yearly growth.
Although USA fell by 12.20 per cent in its total swimwear imports during the 11th month of 2020, both Vietnam and Indonesia remained unaffected and showed resilience which led them capture major chunk of the US swimwear market.
With this robust performance, Vietnam stayed positive in Jan.-Nov. ’20 period as well and upped its swimwear exports to USA by 3.17 per cent; however Indonesia could register the positive shipment and tumbled by 13.66 per cent to US $ 82.91 million.
Jordan, Egypt and Bangladesh were amongst a few of countries which upped their swimwear exports to USA in Jan.-Nov. ’20 period but plunged in November’s shipment.
See table below to know figures.
Swimwear export to USA (Value) | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Countries | Jan-Nov | % Change | Nov | % Change | ||
2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | |||
Vietnam | 198.34 | 204.63 | 3.17 | 14.41 | 19.14 | 32.79 |
Bangladesh | 15.55 | 25.77 | 65.72 | 0.62 | 0.33 | -46.77 |
Egypt | 19.49 | 24.64 | 26.42 | 0.75 | 0.67 | -10.67 |
Jordan | 11.46 | 31.00 | 170.51 | 0.80 | 0.37 | -53.75 |
Indonesia | 96.03 | 82.91 | -13.66 | 4.77 | 8.09 | 69.60 |
Cambodia | 48.36 | 36.23 | -25.08 | 2.44 | 2.06 | -15.57 |
USA’s import | 960.09 | 755.67 | -21.29 | 61.99 | 54.43 | -12.20 |
(Value in US $ million)
However, the figures released by National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), China reinstated the monthly recovery as the country’s apparel sales grew 3.80 per cent in December ’20 on Y-o-Y basis to RMB 152.70 billion.
December figures were also up by 2 per cent on M-o-M basis; the apparel sales in China had clocked RMB 149.70 billion in November ’20.
It’s worth noting here that the total retail sales of the consumer goods in China upped by 4.60 per cent in December ’20, while these figures tumbled by 3.90 per cent on Jan.-Dec, ’20 period.
As far as apparel sales through e-commerce platforms in China are concerned, the figures remained positive with 5.80 per cent Y-o-Y growth in the segment.
Are our leaders in denial? Are leaders in state of “know-but-not knowing”? Are they the victim of what Peter Gay said, “A state of rational apprehension that does not result in appropriate results.” Are they just like Malaysia smokers a victim of the knowing-but not-knowing by keeping the smoking habit even knowing that it can cause problem to their health and others.
History has lessons to show that companies were badly affected by the leaders in denial when these leaders failed to take appropriate actions to rectify the issues that can affect the company goals and obstruct to move it forward. Leaders can be great talkers who are commonly liars. They have great vision but fail to benefit their employees except their cronies.
Looking back at the issues in Malaysia as mentioned by in my previous articles, I believe leaders must realize the denial which involves the ignoring of internal human issues and external factors that can devastate the growth of your companies. You can be a smart leader but the denial leadership can cost you a price to pay for the failure of your company.
Surprisingly many leaders do not face the reality that the situations have affected their company growth and employee morale. The success in the past have made them to make them believe their success will continue by ignoring the reality.
~ Written By Mr Liaw Fenn Yenn on 1/1/2016, TARUC Branch Campus Head ~
eTRADE is an initiative under Digital Malaysia which aims to accelerate export of SMEs through participation in leading international e-marketplace.For the first phase, MATRADE is collaborating with Alibaba to offer SMEs in Malaysia an opportunity to reach out to hundreds of millions of online buyers worldwide. Approved SMEs will be given an e-voucher worth RM2,500 and 50% rebate of subscription fee.
The eligibility criteria for SMEs to participate in e-Trade programme are as follows:-
i. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs);
ii. Malaysian equity of 60% or more;
iii. Incorporated under Companies Act 1965
iv. Exporting made-in-Malaysia Products and Services
Application to the programme is now accessible through MATRADE’s portal www.matrade.gov.my/en/etrade. You may contact Mrs. Asnor Vidya Nor Azmi or Mr. Adhwa Azmil for further clarification at 03-6207 7302 / 7361 or email: asnor@matrade.gov.my / adhwa@matrade.gov.my
Several amendments to the guidelines of Market Development Grant (MDG) have been made by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) with effect from 1st December 2015. This is to ensure that the MDG will benefit more eligible Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
The amendments are as follows:
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
Manufacturing (including agro-based):
Trading
ADDITIONAL MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:
ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES
GRANT AMOUNT
Under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act 2008 (CPSIA), manufacturers or importers of ordinary adult apparel are subject to the flammability standards established under the Flammable Fabrics Act (FFA). The rule also includes a list of fabrics—established more than 30 years ago—that meet the standard. This means that businesses are burdened with paperwork for fabrics that the CPSC has already deemed harmless.
In light of that determination, effective March 25 the CPSC will not pursue compliance or enforcement actions against importers, manufacturers or private labelers for failure to provide a general conformity certificate with respect to adult wearing apparel that is made entirely from one or more of the listed fabrics.
Of course, these products must still comply with all flammability requirements under the FFA and failure to do so will still subject the products to enforcement action.
In fact, based on the data the CPSC has collected, the industry has to produce more than 26 million certificates at a cost of roughly $250 million each year.
Furthermore, the commission calculated that more than 60% of this burden falls on small businesses, which not only lack the infrastructure to minimize per-certificate costs, but their smaller product runs and purchase orders also mean they have fewer units under each one.
Leaders take care cronies most of the time. But a leader must also manage those who are not in his own circle group. There is always a need to make those who are not part of the circle group to feel valuable and important. On the other hand, the elite group shouldn’t be treated in a “special” way than the rest of the team. A great leader must be able to understand and recognize everyone’s value and role in order to encourage everyone at all levels.
Buddhist Master, Sin Yun, once said that management by heart is important to manage employees by sincerity and positive attitude. Many future leaders in the industry are struggling themselves in making plans on achieving their goals and new targets to move their companies forward. Great leaders may have come out with new strategic plans but they need cohesive employees to work together to achieve their plans.
Nevertheless, great leaders respect and appreciate their followers who understand their visions and willing to move forward to the goals together. Most of the time, leaders tend to forget that employees need to be treated fairly and respect during the process of achieving goals.
Some leaders trumpeted their great success by showing the whole world the superlative performance and improvement. They have been rewarded with many great titles being awarded by others. The reality of the world is just like the icing on the cake and the best man wins all.
Martin Luther King Jr. is one of great leader whom I admire a lot with his dream for change and a dream for better tomorrow. He is known for the non-violent ways in which he advanced and led the civil rights movement. He fought for racial equality with his well know saying, “Men and women are limited not by the place of birth, not by the colour of their skin, but the size of their hope.”
At times, most leaders expect employees to show concerted effort. Nevertheless, they do not realise great plan and goal cannot rely upon a thoughtless and mechanical approach. Beautiful plans with great promises but failing to touch on the hearts of employees will surely fail in long run. It is just a matter of time the ultimate success of the company will end up in failure.
~ Written By Mr Liaw Fenn Yenn, Principal / Sri Utama Schools~
Incapacitation Benefit
The Incapacitation Benefit is paid to the member who has lost his job owing to incapacitation and has made an Incapacitation Withdrawal. The amount for Incapacitation Benefit is RM5,000.00. This benefit will be given once only, subject to the following conditions:
· Malaysian citizen;
· Member has not attained the age of 55;
· Applied for Incapacitation Withdrawal within 12 months of the date of termination of service;
· Last period of service must be at least 6 continuous months;
· Reason for termination of service must be incapability to work and not disciplinary action or voluntary resignation.
Death Benefit
The Death Benefit is paid to the member’s dependant or next-of-kin, subject to consideration by the EPF, when the application for Death Withdrawal is made. The amount for Death Benefit is RM2,500.00. This benefit will be given once only, subject to the following conditions:
· Malaysian citizen;
· Member has not attained the age of 55 years at the time of death;
· Application for Death Withdrawal is made within 6 months of the date of demise of the member.
EPF rules under the section “Death Withdrawal” states that the deceased member must be a Malaysian citizen or a permanent resident. If a non-Malaysian must be an EPF member before August 1 1998. Non-Malaysians who opted to contribute after August 1 1998 are not eligible for death benefit.
SOCSO is a governmental body which provides medical and financial coverage for employees who are injured in the course of employment or who experience invalidity or whose death is unrelated to employment.
Prior to 1 June 2016, SOCSO contributions were a requirement for individuals earning less than RM 3,000 per month, and optional for those earning more than RM 3,000 per month.
However, from 1 June 2016 onwards with the amendments of the Social Security Employee Act 1969, SOCSO contributions are compulsory for all employees who are Malaysian citizens or permanent residents, regardless of the amount of monthly wages.
All employees must be registered and contributed to SOCSO irrespective of the age. However, contribution will be capped at monthly remuneration of RM4,000.
For any employee who are never been protected under SOCSO, the employer must fill the Form 2 (Employee Registration Form) and submit it to the nearest SOCSO Office.
Coverage Provided by SOCSO
SOCSO provides coverage to eligible employees through 2 schemes namely:
These schemes are classified into 2 categories :
For the purpose of SOCSO contribution, wages mean all remuneration payable in money to an employee. The following payments are considered as wages :
Payments made to an employee paid at an hourly rate, daily rate, weekly rate, task or piece rate are also considered as wages.
However, the following payments are not considered as wages :
a) Cover all employers, regardless the number of employees.
b) Cover all employees in private sector, except domestic servant.
c) Minimum wage for Peninsular Malaysia is RM1,000 per month / RM4.81 per hour; and RM920 per month / RM4.42 per hour for Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan.
d) With Maximum working hour of 48 hours per week, the daily minimum wages shall be as follow:
e) For employees whose wages paid based on piece rate, tonnage, task, trip or commission, total monthly wages payable shall not be less than RM1,000 for Peninsular Malaysia or RM920 for Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan.
f) With effective from 1st July 2016, clauses on Delay Application, Negotiation for Re-structure of Wages and Minimum Wages for Employees under Probation Period will be abolished.
The textile, leather and fur products regulated as household products include the following:
Textile Products: Diapers, diaper covers, underwear, sleepwear, gloves, socks, intermediate garments, outer garments, caps, hats, bedding, floor coverings, tablecloths, collar ornaments, handkerchiefs, and towels, baths mats and related products.
Leather and/or Fur Products: Underwear, gloves, intermediate garments, outer garments, caps, hats and floor coverings.
The proposed date of entry into force is April 1, 2016.
The increase falls short of the $171 a month wage proposed by unions. On the other hand, factory owners had proposed a $147 minimum wage.
The clothing and footwear industry is Cambodia’s biggest export earner, employing about 700,000 people in more than 700 garment and shoe factories. In 2015, Cambodia shipped nearly $7 billion worth of products to the United States and Europe.
The decision was made after six days of tense negotiations by a commission representing employers, workers and the government.
A $100 level was set for 2014 and $128 for 2015 and $140 this year but pressures over wages remained strong.
The Labor Ministry said that when other benefits are calculated, the workers will make an average of $170 to $181 monthly next year.
On 21 November 2016, the new Bankruptcy (Amendment) Bill 2016 was tabled in Parliament for its First Reading.
The new Bankruptcy Bill will bring about significant changes to Malaysia’s bankruptcy laws. This comes against a backdrop of rising bankruptcy cases, especially for individuals under the age of 35.
In summary, the new Bankruptcy Bill is more borrower-friendly and will make it more difficult for creditors to commence and maintain bankruptcy proceedings.
(1) A Change of Name: Bankruptcy Act 1967 to the Insolvency Act 1967
The Bankruptcy Act 1967 will be renamed to the Insolvency Act 1967. Hence, when the new Act comes into force, any written law or document shall be construed as referring to the Insolvency Act 1967 instead.
(2) Introduction of the Rescue Mechanism: Voluntary Arrangement
There is a new pre-bankruptcy rescue mechanism called the voluntary arrangement. The salient elements are:
Within the 90-day interim order period, the nominee will hold a meeting of the creditors to try to secure their approval for the voluntary arrangement. The voluntary arrangement is essentially where the creditors agree to compromise or discount the debts owing to them.
The nominee needs to secure more than 50% in number and at least 75% in value of the creditors’ agreement. However, the secured creditors’ rights cannot be affected without their consent. If the approval is obtained, it will then be binding on all the creditors.
(3) Stricter Requirements for Service of Bankruptcy Papers
The bankruptcy notice must be personally served. Further, substituted service is possible but there are now stricter requirements. The creditor must prove to the satisfaction of the court that the debtor has:
3) Higher Threshold for Bankruptcy: RM50,000.00 instead of RM30,000.00
The threshold for the debt for bankruptcy proceedings has now been increased to RM50,000.00 from the present RM30,000.00.
(4) Single Bankruptcy Order
The present law has a sometimes confusing reference to the adjudication order and the receiving order. This will now be simplified to a single unified order called the bankruptcy order.
(6) Social Guarantor: No Bankruptcy
A social guarantor is a person who does not profit and essentially provides a guarantee for an education loan, hire-purchase transaction for personal or non-business use, or a housing loan for personal dwelling.
The present Bankruptcy Act 1967 allows for bankruptcy proceedings against a social guarantor if the creditor had exhausted all avenues to recover from the debtor.
The law will change where there will now be an absolute prohibition in commencing any bankruptcy action against a social guarantor.
(7) Other Guarantors
There is also added protection for other types of guarantors. A creditor will need to obtain permission from the court before commencing bankruptcy proceedings against other guarantors. The creditor would have to demonstrate he has exhausted all modes of execution and enforcement to recover from the debtor first.
(8) New List of Bankrupts to be Allowed Discharge
The following list of individuals will also be afforded protection where creditors cannot object to the discharge of bankruptcy. The individuals are a social guarantor, a bankrupt with a disability under the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008, a deceased bankrupt, and a bankrupt suffering from a serious illness.
(9) Automatic Discharge
There is also a new provision allowing for an automatic discharge of the bankruptcy after three years from submitting his statement of affairs and subject to achieving the target contribution set by the Director General of Insolvency (DGI) and having rendered an account of monies and property to the DGI. The creditors can object to the automatic discharge but there are only limited specified grounds they can raise.
(10) A New Insolvency Assistance Fund
There will be the establishment of the Insolvency Assistance Fund. It will be administered and controlled by the DGI for the purposes of achieving the betterment of the administration and proceedings relating to bankruptcy.
In addition, the Government has also proposed a reduction of corporate tax rate based on the annual increase in chargeable income for YA 2017 and 2018 as follows:
Under the Companies Act 2016, it appears that dormant companies and small private companies will no longer need to appoint auditors. This audit exemption will allow startups and SMEs to enjoy further cost savings in the running of their businesses.
Allowing for audit exemption also brings Malaysia in line with practices in other countries like the UK, Australia and Singapore.
As a starting point, section 267(2) of the Companies Act 2016 allows the Registrar of Companies to exempt any private company from the requirement to appoint an auditor for each financial year.
It is proposed that there will essentially be two categories of private companies which will enjoy audit exemption. The information below is still subject to the final Practice Directive to be issued.
Dormant Companies
A company is treated as being dormant when there has been no accounting transaction:
(i) it has been dormant since the time of its formation; or
(ii) it has been dormant for three consecutive financial years.
As a safeguard, any member or members holding at least 5% of the total issued shares, or at least 5% of the members, can still require such a dormant company to carry out an audit of its accounts for that financial year.
Small Companies
There is now a category known as a small company. This would be very relevant to startups and SMEs, since many may fall within the treatment of a small company. A small company need not appoint an auditor to audit its financial statements.
A company qualifies to be a small company by satisfying two of the three criteria for the period of two financial years immediately before the financial year:
(i) Revenue: Does not exceed RM300,000 for each financial year.
(ii) Total Assets: Does not exceed RM500,000 for each financial year.
(iii) Employees: Not more than 5 employees.
There are also references to how to treat the parent company, subsidiary or a group of companies as a small company or a small group of companies. This will allow such companies to also enjoy exemption from having to appoint an auditor.
Finally, although these companies may be exempted from audit, the companies must still lodge their financial statements with the Registrar of Companies. So these financial statements would be in its unaudited form.
The long-awaited Companies Bill 2015 has received Royal Assent on 31 August 2016 and has been gazetted on 15 September 2016 as the Companies Act 2016. The new Act has not been brought into force yet.
The Companies Commission of Malaysia (CCM) intends to bring the Companies Act 2016 into force in the first quarter of 2017, except for the provisions on the two new corporate rescue mechanisms of corporate voluntary arrangement (CVA) and judicial management (JM).
The 7 Significant Changes
1. Easier Incorporation of Companies
The Act will introduce the ability to incorporate a company with one individual being the single shareholder and single director. This will make incorporating a company more attractive for businesses, entrepreneurs and the businessman. A single individual can have complete control of the company, and still enjoy the separate liability of the corporate entity.
2. Lower Costs of Running Companies: No AGM for Private Companies
In line with this, there will be no more need for an annual general meeting (AGM) for private companies. Some important things flow from this. For private companies, audited accounts are no longer put before the AGM. Instead, there will be a timeline to circulate the audited accounts among the shareholders.
3. Easier Passing of Written Resolutions for Private Companies
With the move away from physical general meetings, private companies will also find it easier to pass written shareholder resolutions. A majority of shareholders can sign off on the written resolution to pass it as an ordinary resolution. There is no more need to have the unanimous written resolution.
4. No More Memorandum and Articles of Association
Under the Act, the company will no longer have a Memorandum and Articles of Association. The new Act aims to provide all the processes and provisions necessary for the smooth-running of a company. However, if a company wishes to tailor certain provisions for itself, it can then adopt a Constitution. Existing companies will have its Memorandum and Articles of Association deemed to be the new Constitution.
5. Added Safeguards: New Solvency Test Requirement
Going hand-in-hand with making corporate processes easier, certain safeguards will be put in place. This is to protect third parties doing business with companies and where their rights as creditors should not be prejudiced.
There will be different varieties of a new ‘solvency test’ that will be applied for different situations. Directors must sign on the equivalent of a statutory declaration to verify that the company is solvent when the company undertakes the following:
(i) Declaration of dividends;
(ii) Capital reduction without a court order, financial assistance and redemption of preference shares; and
(iii) Share buyback.
Where there is a breach of this solvency test, the directors then face personal liability and may face criminal sanctions.
6. Increase in Sanctions on Directors
There is a general increase in the sanctions that directors will face for breaches under the Act. The more serious infractions can result in a 5-year imprisonment and RM3 million fine or both, if there is a criminal conviction.
7. Corporate Rescue: Corporate Voluntary Arrangement and Judicial Management
The new Act will introduce two new corporate rescue mechanisms to help financially distressed companies. The aim is to allow these companies to restructure their debts, to remain as a going concern and to avoid winding up.
Firstly, there will be the new corporate voluntary arrangement process, adopting the provisions from the UK. This is meant to be a quick and cheaper process, with minimal Court involvement. The company’s management will have its debt restructuring proposal assessed by an independent insolvency practitioner. 75% in value of the company’s creditors will then vote on whether to accept this proposal. If passed, it then binds all the creditors.
Secondly, judicial management is a mechanism based on the Singapore provisions and UK’s administration model. The management of the company itself is ceded over to an independent insolvency practitioner i.e. a Court-appointed judicial manager. The company will enjoy a very wide moratorium which gives it protection from legal proceedings. This is to maintain the company as a going concern. The judicial manager formulates a restructuring plan and presents it to the creditors for their approval.
The Working Capital Guarantee Scheme (“WCGS”) is established by the Malaysian Government to enable Small and Medium Enterprise (SMEs) companies in all sectors to continue gaining access to working capital financing facilities from financial institutions (“FI”) to spur further economic growth for the country.
WCGS Scheme amounting to RM2 billion is an extension of the previous WCGS where the tenure of guarantee had expired on 31 December 2015.
Objective
The purpose of the financing is for working capital and capital expenses (CAPEX) purposes only and should not be applied for the purposes of refinancing of existing facilities granted by the same or other participating FIs.
Eligibility
WCGS provides working capital financing to viable SME companies with shareholders equity less than RM20.0 million and incorporated under the Companies Act 1965 with at least 51% shares held by Malaysian.
The FI will provide the financing facilities and the Malaysian Government will provide a 70% guarantee of the said financing facilities. It is strictly for local operations only.
The maximum financing limit per company is RM5.0 million whereas the minimum financing limit is RM100,000. The financing tenure is five (5) years or until 31 December 2020, whichever is earlier.
Application
The application for SSGS will commence from 1 January 2016 until 31 December 2018 or until the allocated RM2 billion is fully utilised, whichever is earlier.
The guarantee fee of 1.0% per annum is payable upfront upon approval. The interest rate will be determined by the FIs that provide the financing.
The Syarikat Jaminaan Pembiayaan Perniagaan (SJPP) will issue the guarantee cover within 10 business days from receipt of the guarantee application from the participating FIs.
SJPP is a company wholly owned by the Minister of Finance Inc. SJPP’s role is to administer and manage two guarantee schemes namely the Working Capital Guarantee Scheme (“WCGS”) and Industry Restructuring Financing Guarantee Scheme (“IRFGS”). The IRFGS application has been closed as the approval has reached the RM3 billion threshold.
However, for WCGS application, there were only 288 approved cases amounted to RM4 million as at 20 November 2016. There are still RM16 million allocation available for application.
The new standard includes five basic textile care symbols, which will be displayed in the order of washing, bleaching, ironing and professional textile care treatments of dry and wet cleaning, along with a number of additional symbols. This increases the number of care symbols used in Japanese garments from 22, under JIS L0217-1995, to 41, under JIS L0001-2014.
In addition to harmonizing the use of care label symbols with internationally recognized standards, the new regulations will effectively replace words with symbols. Word will now only be acceptable on care labels when they supplement the information given by the symbol. The new care labels must be visible, indelible and easily accessible to the consumer.
The rationale behind the amendment of the Order is to achieve the target of a 35% skilled Malaysian workforce by 2020 as underlined in the Eleventh Malaysia Plan. Besides, it anticipate to raise the SMEs’ contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to 41% and increase the share of the country’s exports from SME to 23% by 2020.
All liable employers are advised to register with PSMB.
The summary of the amendment of the First Schedule is as follows :
Malaysia is moving towards achieving its goals of becoming an advanced nation by 2020, however the nations has set its eyes on a greater goal. It also focuses on becoming a high income nation with greater level of public well-being. The nation’s reliance on low-skilled foreign workers of certain industries in manufacturing sector has proven to be one of the impending factors that prevents this industries from moving up the value chain.
In its effort to facilitate growth in labor intensive industries, Malaysian government has introduced a new incentive to encourage manufacturers to adopt automation in their respective industries.
Automation Capital Allowance (ACA) was introduced via Budget 2015. Through this incentive, additional allowance will be provided to manufacturers on investment in automation. This initiative is in line with 11MP which aims to promote automation to reduce reliance on low-skilled foreign workers in labor intensive industries.
This strategic initiatives aims to encourage innovation, quick adoption of automation in labor intensive industries. Any manufacturing organisation operating in Malaysia for at least 36 months are eligible for this incentive.
Category 1 of ACA is offered to high labor intensive industries (rubber products, plastics, wood, furniture and textiles), which allocates an automation capital allowance of 200% on the first RM4 million expenditure incurred within three years of assessment from 2015 to 2017.
Category 2 of the ACA is an option that is made available for other industries. Under Category 2, manufacturers will be provided with automation capital allowance of 200% on first RM2 million expenditure incurred within 5 years of assessment from 2015 to 2020.
Standards and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM), will be the governing body to ensure the expected results are delivered, while MIDA will remain as the approving body for ACA application.
As of December 2016, MIDA has received 50 applications for ACA, 35 has been approved. Of the 35 approved, 23 applications were approved under Category 1 and the rest were approved under Category 2. Collectively they were able to reduce dependence on foreign workers by 20 per cent while increasing average production volume by 200 to 300 per cent.
Source: Excerpts from MIDA 2016 Investment Performance Report
Turkey becomes a leading export market for Malaysian textile products, contributing RM776.7 million (11.4%) of the industry’s total exports followed by Japan and Indonesia.
In 2016, a total of eight projects were approved in the textiles and textile products industry with total investments of RM763.4 million. Domestic investments amounted to RM401 million (52.5%) while foreign investments accounted for RM362.4 million (47.5%).
Of the total projects approved, two for primary textiles (RM698 million), two for ready-made garments (RM1.2 million) and four for textile products/ accessories (RM64.2 million).
Of the eight projects approved, four were new projects (RM456 million) while the remaining were expansion/diversification projects (RM307.4 million). The approved projects are expected to generate 344 employment opportunities of which 143 in the managerial, technical and supervisory categories. Some of the high income jobs to be created include engineers, quality controllers and high-skill technicians.
Projects Approved in 2016
The significant projects approved in 2016 was by Malaysia majority company with investments of RM410 million.
The company is planning to undertake the production of knitted polyester fabric with investment in the state-of-the art machine from Germany and eco-friendly facilities for the
process modernisation of knitting, dyeing and finishing of the high-end garments. It furnishes high stretch, sustainable, fine yarn count and functional performance fabric features in the sport shirt and casual dress for Nike, Under Armour and Adidas. This project will lead to substantial creation of employment and rural development in Kluang district, Johor.
Besides, there was another significant investment of RM287.9 million for non-woven fabrics. This is an expansion foreign-owned project with focusing on more higher value-added products and the improvement of existing products. Its strong exports market is further strengthened by an increased in sales and production output with the highest demand coming from high-value brand customers namely, Kimberly Clark, Procter & Gamble, SCA and 3M.
In addition, the company’s expansion and continued emphasis on research and development of new high quality products will offer various job opportunities to local skilled employees. Its commitment to training will benefit employees in acquiring knowledge and experience in the latest technological innovations and development.
Moving forward, textiles industry are still relevant and to be promoted especially on niche market and the upstream activities. Under the Malaysian 2015 Budget, the Government introduced a new tax incentive, namely, the Automation Capital Allowance (Automation CA) with the objective to accelerate the shift of manufacturing and services sectors, from labour-intensive into high value added, knowledge-intensive and innovation-based industries.
To date, MIDA has received eight applications on textile projects under this new initiative.
Despite the depreciated €, the EU faced a subdued growth of exports, due to weak performances in EU customers’ main market (Switzerland, China, Japan) and to a decrease of sales in Russia, Turkey, Hong Kong and the US, EU’s top customer, (-0.7%).
EU exporters achieved better results in other markets such as Morocco (+8.5%), as well as Ukraine and Serbia (with+13% on average).
EU technical textiles & menswear exports up in 2016
Technical textiles and menswear exporters in EU-28 nations registered good performance in 2016. Technical textiles sector is a pillar of textile exports outside the EU with a 38 per cent share in 2016, while menswear exports accounted for 23 per cent of total clothing exports.
Technical textiles exports outside the EU-28 once again increased year-on-year to almost €10 billion, an increase of 2.4 per cent in value.
Menswear exports outside the EU-28 amounted to more than €5 billion with a 2 per cent year-on-year increase. The leading buyer of menswear, Switzerland, reduced its purchases in value by 3.9 per cent. However, there was noteworthy double-digit growth in the value of exports to South Korea, Australia, Mexico, Serbia, Israel and Ukraine. The three major menswear products for export were: trousers (32 per cent of category exports), shirts (19 per cent) and coats (17 per cent). Purchases of all three were up owing to the weak euro.
Furthermore, exports of rugs and carpets outside the EU-28 expanded again strongly in value by 5.5 per cent. This sector represented 4.3 per cent of all textile exports outside the EU.
Customer-wise, the four main buyers—the US, Switzerland, Norway and Russia—absorbed 49 per cent of exports of rugs and carpets outside the EU.
According to the revision, washing care labeling for mufflers, scarves and shawls, and fibre composition of interlining for trouser are mandatory from April 1, 2017 while washing care labeling and fibre composition for hat, cap, etc are mandatory from April 1, 2018.
There will be a one-year transition period for implementation. After the enforcement on April 1, 2017, items can be labeled either according to the requirements before or after the revision until April 1, 2018.
Under the Household Products Quality Labeling Act, most apparel and textile products are required to be labeled with its fibre composition as well as instructions for care.
All the labeling information must be permanently attached to the textile product, either printed directly on the product or on a sewn in label. The label must be visible, indelible and easily accessible to the consumer.
The Indian GST Council has finalised the tax rates for textiles and apparel under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime that is rolled-out pan India from July 1.
The Council has made a distinction between various items and textiles and clothing would attract different rates. The GST Council had fixed the rates for over 1,200 goods and 500 services — at the slabs of 5, 12, 18 and 28 per cent.
Readymade apparel priced below Rs 1,000 would attract GST at 5 per cent, while the expensive ones would be taxed at 12 per cent.
In the textiles category, no tax would be levied on silk and jute fibre. Cotton and natural fibre will be taxed at 5 five per cent. Man-made fibre and yarn will attract 18 per cent tax rate. All other fibres and yarn would have a uniform 5 per cent rate.
Footwear below Rs 500 at 5 per cent while those costing more would be taxed at 18 per cent.
Here are some highlights:
* Packaged food items sold under registered trademarks to be taxed at 5 per cent.
* GST on apparel below Rs 1,000 fixed at 5 per cent. Readymade garments to attract 12% GST; Yarn and fabric cotton 5 per cent. (Natural yarn to be taxed at 5 per cent, man-made yarn at 18 per cent)
* 0 per cent tax on Jute
* Footwear priced below Rs 500 to be taxed at 5%, the rest at 18%
* GST rate for gold fixed at 3 per cent
* Gold, gems, jewellery to be taxed at 3 per cent
* GST on all biscuits to be 18%
India’s total exports fell 1.12% in October to US$23bn. Within that, garment exports slumped 39.2% for the month to $829.4m following the roll-out of the goods and services tax (GST) in July.
In the pre-GST regime, cotton garments enjoyed a 12% incentive on duty drawback and rebate on certain state levies known as Remission of State Levies (ROSL). But this has been slashed to 2% on duty drawback and 0.39% on ROSL.
The made-ups sector, which includes products such as towels and bedsheets, is the second-largest employer in the textile sector after apparel. The cabinet last year approved a set of reforms including simplified labour laws and technology upgradation for the sector besides a Rs 6,000 crore package for employment generation and promotion of textile exports.
A report in October showed India’s textile exports have remained stagnant in the past four fiscal years, after growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 13% between FY2010 and FY2014 in US dollar terms, driven by apparel, home textiles and cotton yarns.
The report put the slowdown in the apparel sector down to subdued demand in the key consuming regions of the US and the European Union (EU). Cotton yarn exports have also been under pressure, and the recent revision in duty drawback rates has added to this pressure.
The industry has also faced intense competitive pressures from other leading textile exporting nations such as Vietnam, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Bangladesh and Pakistan enjoy special duty benefits under GSP on shipments to the European Union.
The new Mexican textile labels Standard NMX-A-3758-INNTEX-2014 has come into force on October 15, 2017. The new standard supersedes NMX-A-240-INNTEX-2009.
In Mexico, textile and garment labels must comply with the correct mandatory standards (NOMs) and/or voluntary standards (NMXs). If the relevant NOM specifies a NMX, this becomes mandatory.
Generally, all apparel, apparel accessories, textile products and home textiles In Mexico with more than 50 per cent textile content must comply with mandatory labelling requirements.
For apparel and apparel accessories, one or more permanent and legible label(s) must be attached at the collar, waist or any other visible location with the labelling information in Spanish. Additionally providing labelling information in other languages is also allowed.
For closed packaging, all information must be permanently labelled on the product and with a temporary label on the packaging.
Mexican labeling must show:
Stakeholders are advised to ensure that products are complied with the new requirements for textile labelling in Mexico.
The tripartite Labour Advisory Committee – consisting of representatives from the government, unions and employers – went into the meeting with their own wage proposals: $165, $170 and $162, respectively.
The committee selected the government proposal of $165, after which Prime Minister declared a now-customary $5 bump, bringing next year’s wage to $170.
The sector generates $7 billion annually for the economy. About 700,000 people work in the more than 700 garment and shoe factories in Cambodia, helping to sustain rural livelihoods in one of the world’s poorest countries.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, who had not reached out to workers during his 32 years in power, had been telling workers he would increase the minimum wage to at least $168 on early 2018. Garment workers who have largely protested his government, are in the spotlight ahead of a general election.
Pav Sina, president of the Collective Union Movement of Workers, said the hike was welcome but still insufficient.
“$170 is not enough for a decent living yet. However, it is a good start for this year to increase the minimum wage to this level plus other benefits offered to workers which are paid by employers,” he said.
Other benefits in the new package include free health care from employers and free access to public transport, which employers will also be expected to pay for or provide.
From the garment manufacturers’ perspective, the new wage rate could mean tough times ahead. Wages for garment workers have increased over 150% over the past five years from $61 per month in 2012 to the current $153.
By comparison, minimum wages in Vietnam will rise 6.5% to between $121 and $175 (depending on the region) next year. Myanmar could end up being a 55% wage jump, bringing the country’s monthly pay rate from $67 to $99.
It also said that the government will continue to delay taxing profits in the textiles sector and eliminate export management fees.
For the year to date, according to data from OTEXA, Cambodia makes up a 2.6% share of U.S. apparel imports, compared to 14.4% from Vietnam and Bangladesh’s 6.6% share.
Under Section 7 of the Income Tax Act (ITA), a foreign worker become liable to pay income tax when he is deemed a resident after having been in Malaysia for 182 days or more.
It is further noted that effective August 2017, employers are required to perform Monthly Tax Deductions (MTD) for employees with foreign nationalities (employment contract exceed 182 days beginning from its effective date) based on current publish rates of local workers.
The 2017 MTD Schedule is applicable to all foreign workers and expatriates with monthly income above RM2,851. Employers should immediately apply the MTD Schedule for foreign workers that are liable.
Taxable employment income comprises of the following:
Employers Responsibilities & Relevant Forms
To enrol yourselves and get your personal username and password, please download this Assist Portal Enrolment Form, complete it and bring it to the SOCSO Branch Office nearest to you.
You may even post, email or fax the completed form to the PERKESO Office nearest to you. The SOCSO branch office will process your form and generate your personal user account.
You will receive an email with your username and temporary password once the account is generated. During your first login, you will be asked to change your password for security purposes.
RM200,000 per eligible company. Any company that has fully utilised RM200,000 since the date of commencement of MDG in 2002, will no longer be eligible for consideration. MDG reimbursements for any given year will be subject to the availability of funds.
Activities Apply (Effective 1st January 2018)
REMINDER: Companies are advised to submit EARLY/WITHIN 40 days of the last date of activity. Late submission will not be compromised.
Notes:
“Every employee shall be entitled to a paid holiday at his ordinary rate of the pay on the following days in any one calendar year”;
(a) On eleven (11) of the gazetted public holidays, five (5) of which shall be –
iii) Birthday of the Ruler or the Yang di-Pertuan Negeri
(b) On any day appointed as a public holiday for that particular year under Section 8 of the Holidays Act 1951
o If there is, then the Company must observe all Public Holidays irrespective under which Section of the Holidays Act the day is declared.
o If Companies Collective Agreements or terms and conditions of employment do not observe all the public holidays as gazetted by the Federal or State Government but observe only a specified number of public holidays, the company is NOT legally obliged to observe a public holiday declared under Section 9 of the Holidays Act.
In the event that the answer is NO, but would still want to observe the public holiday declared under Section 9 of the Holidays Act, it would be recommended that the Company include a provision in the agreement that the “Company is not legally obliged to observe the public holiday and all future decisions will strictly be on a case to case basis”.
Content of each aromatic amine derived from azo colourants shall not exceed 30 mg/kg for all textile products.
The regulations also allow exemptions for certain textile products. These include unbleached or undyed fabrics and textile products, textile products in transit or stored in warehouses for assembling, textile products temporarily imported for re-export, foreign tourist belongings temporarily entering Vietnam and commercial samples with no market value or samples for scientific study.
All textile products that are manufactured, imported, distributed and marketed in Vietnam are required to declare conformity with a CR mark at the point of sale and provide a conformity certificate either by self-declaration or by the appointed certifying organisation.
MKMA was incorporated on 29 August 1975 with the objective to strengthen unity among industry players and to protect the interest of the industry.The Malaysian textile industry started in the early 70s. However, the industry faced shortage and high import duty of raw materials especially yarn. MKMA has contributed great efforts to liaise with the Government and spinners. Hence, the raw material issue has been resolved.
In year 2000, MKMA purchased a building situated at 12-1, Jalan Megat, 83000 Batu Pahat, Johor and setup the national administrative office here. Unfortunately, the building is encountering land sinking and subsequent wall cracking problems due to nearby river bed drainage. In this regard, MKMA AGM 2017 has resolved to dispose this existing building and purchase a new building for office usage.
After serious consideration, the Executive Committee Meeting held on 14 April 2018 resolved to purchase a three storey building located at 13, Jalan Penjaja, 83000 Batu Pahat, Johor. The purchase price is RM650,000. The building is conveniently situated at town area, well maintain and deem prospectus.
As we are unable to dispose the existing building yet, it was resolved to raise a building fund of Ringgit Malaysia Six Hundred Fifty Thousand only (RM650,000). We urge members and business partners to generously donate to support this project.
Thank you.
Lau Mong Ying Dato’ Tang Chong Chin
Building Management Committee Chairman President / MKMA
In case of PFY, NFY and VFY the imports have gone up by 13 per cent, 3 per cent and 38 per cent respectively. In case of import of polyester spun yarn, viscose spun yarn and nylon spun yarn the increase was 94 per cent, 526 per cent and 15 per cent respectively which is impacting domestic man-made fibre and MMF yarn manufacturers in a big way.
The duty has come into effect from July 16, 2018. The imported products which will become expensive include woven fabrics, dresses, trousers, suits and baby garments.
In case of MMF based fabrics, Government had increased customs duty from 10 per cent to 20 per cent in October 2017. However, important tariff lines in the knitted fabrics segment such as 60011020, 60059000 and 60069000 were left out through which substantial imports still continue. Therefore, duties on these three fabric lines also need to be increased to 20 per cent, he said.
There is also the challenge of understanding how to get the process started and apply for incentives or grants, observes Datuk Tang Chong Chin, managing director of United Sweethearts Garment Sdn Bhd and president of the Malaysian Knitting Manufacturers Association.
“Some of them may find it difficult to handle some of the paperwork and documentation for the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and SIRIM. A lot of us know what to do, but do not know what to write.” he said.
While different companies require different solutions when it comes to automation, even within the same industry, there are varying challenges to automation. For instance, in the textile industry, the upstream players (such as yarn-spinning factories) can automate more than the downstream players.
“We mainly depend on people who sew and it depends on what sort of sewing they do. For example, if they sew uniforms, the styling is the same all year long, so they can probably do more automation because it is standardised. But I am doing children’s wear, adults’ casual wear and sportswear, so the production keeps changing and the level of automation is not very high,” Dato’ Tang added.
Step by step
One government agency spearheading the automation effort is MIDA. CEO Datuk Azman Mahmud says the lack of understanding about automation technologies and the high cost of equipment are two common challenges cited by SMEs.
MIDA has introduced several measures to help SMEs. One incentive is the Automation Capital Allowance (ACA), which was announced in 2015. Depending on the category, companies can claim up to 200% allowance for a fixed amount of qualifying capital expenditure. The claimable period is from 2015 to 2020.
MIDA has approved 88 applications for the incentive as at January. Of those, 38 are in Category 1 — which represents the labour-intensive industries of rubber, plastic, wood and textile products — while 50 are in Category 2, which represents the other industries. The agency says the companies that applied for the incentive have managed to achieve an average increase in production volume of 200% to 300% so far.
Based on the applications it has received, MIDA says the investment in new automated systems can range from RM99,000 to RM11.7 million.
Three companies that have been successful in their ACA application are Joe Green Precast, a manufacturer of precast wall panels for building and construction; SYW Industry, a manufacturer of anchor belts, steel bands and U-bolts; and United Sweethearts Garments.
United Sweethearts Garment was able to increase its production volume by more than 300%. With the automation, it has the capacity to produce a much higher volume, which would otherwise require at least 100 workers. By automating its operations, the company has also managed to reduce its defect rate by 80% to 90%.
A stitch in time
Companies need to automate to stay competitive, says Datuk Tang Chong Chin, “The adoption of automation can result in savings in terms of hiring manpower and energy consumption. It can also decrease defect rates,” he adds.
Tang started the automation journey by identifying processes that could be automated. One example is the elastic splice machine that creates the elastic bands in trousers. The process involves three parts: cooling down the elastic band and pulling it out, measuring the length needed and cutting it, and using a sewing machine to connect the two ends. The entire process requires two people.
“We bought very advanced machines at a high cost [about US$35,000 each]. Once you fit in the elastic, the machine can automatically pull it out and measure whatever length you want and cut it. After cutting, the sewing head attached to the machine sews it for you. In our case, one person can manage three machines. I bought three machines, so we reduced about five workers,” he says.
Tang also bought software to draw the pattern of the design and digitise it. “From there, we can enlarge and reduce to different sizes because when you draw, you can only draw one size. By using manpower to draw and match the marker, you may need two to three people. But how many stylings can you do a day? This software can help complete seven to eight in a day so it saves a lot of time,” he says.
A more unusual item is its Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP) system. While the business software is typically not claimable, Tang says his company’s case was an exception because the ERP was extended to the shop floor for production control. Instead of just managing administration issues, the ERP is used for productivity and quality inspection. The data is sent to the server and an LED television is installed for every production line.
“Otherwise, the supervisor need to keep recording production and quality inspection, then punch it into Excel, which is not a living document,” he says.
“But we extended the ERP to our shop floor so that every minute, you can check it on the TV. The ERP itself is not claimable. But if you have software related to the operation of production, it is claimable.”
Tang says he has claimed an estimated RM3.5 million in the past three years. His company — which has an annual turnover of almost US$60 million — has cut its foreign workforce to 900 from more than 1,000.
Nevertheless, he suggests that companies should talk to the MIDA before buying any equipment. We should make use of this benefit to improve the automation level and be more competitive. Otherwise, you will lose out one day.
He advises companies to visit exhibitions. Normally, machine suppliers will showcase the latest technology, software or hardware there.
(This article is an extract from The Edge Malaysia Weekly, published on July 9, 2018)
At the age of 23, I decided to venture out into the world. My uncle who was in the Police Force and suggested that I join the Police Force to gain experience and exposure. I leapt at the opportunity and was appointed the rank of Probationary Inspector in the Special Branch. Little did I know of the heroic deeds I would be engaging in soon.
When I joined the Police Force in 1976, it was during the height of the communist insurgency. Nobody wanted to be posted to Perak which was at the heart of communist activity. In the Special Branch, only 15 out of 126 officers volunteered to go to Perak. I was one of them. I was involved in special operations throughout in the jungles of Perak, fighting against communists who were infiltrating the orang asli communities.
My first contact with the enemy was in a mining field in Gopeng during Ops Sitiawan, when my troops were engaged in a firefight with the communists. It was during these deadly situations that I learned a vital life-changing lesson – focus was the number one factor that separated success from failure. In 1991 I became the Head Prosecutor in Batu Pahat.
It was during the height of my career in the Police Force that my entrepreneurial spirit awoke again. So I started to do what I used to in his younger days – look for business opportunities.
Whilst in Batu Pahat I met an old colleague, Mr. Muniandy from Taiping, Perak, who was attached to a Textile Company, Sigma Textiles Sdn. Bhd as the factory manager. The factory was looking for a buyer. I bought over the company and engaged Mr. Muniandy as the General Manager to manage the business. Mr. Muniandy remains with me until today.
It was only in 1995 that I took up my optional retirement from the Police Force after 20 years of service. In 1996, I was finally able to actively participate in the running and building of the company. I garnered knowledge on Textile Manufacturing beginning with Warp Knitted Fabrics and subsequently indulged myself into the Textile Industry.
Starting with a staff of 10 from the previous company, I focused on achieving a minimum target of 10% growth annually and diversified marketing.
Hence Maple Tricot Industries Sdn Bhd supplies textiles to large manufacturers of branded apparels as well as to local garment makers large and small. The company also supply to the government and GLCs on tenders. Today the company employs around a hundred workers and able to produce 100 + tons of fabric a month, and have even started to produce fabrics for the automotive industry.
This year marks the 25th anniversary since establishment. I believe in the potentials in the industry and will keep venturing forward from year onto year.
~ By Mr Khadmudin Bin Hj Mohd Rafik ~
In the 70s, Malaysia was developing light industries and investment in the knitting and garment industry became the main driver. That was the golden period for investments. Thus, I decided to quit my job in Singapore and started my own business with friends.
Time flies and I have been in this industry for nearly 50 years. Overs these years, we encountered various difficulties and even being cheated many times. Of course on the other hand there are great friends that rendered assistance and valuable advises that are helpful in time of need.
In my opinion, the Malaysian textile industry is unable to flourish due to the following reasons :
1. Lack of Government support. SME loans are offered with conditions. Usually it is difficult to get approval without mortgage. Loans from financial institutions are even more stringent as they are very cautions towards SME companies and often tighten financial facilities in times of crisis. Financial constraint limits companies to purchase new machineries to upgrade their capacity and quality.
2. Lack of human resources particularly the intermediate level skillful employees. Furthermore, businesses are often jeopardized by the unstable foreign workers policy and the burden of shifting the levy from foreign workers to the employers. Many companies have no choice but to closed down or change path to operate other businesses.
3. Not many capital intensive spinning mills within the country which caused lack of local supply of raw materials. Businesses have to depend on import raw materials. Often they are required to import in containers which tightens their cash flow.
Although the above factors impacted the growth of the textile industry, businesses still can survive. If a company is effectively managed there will be outstanding performance. We have witness many successful textile businesses in the country.
Recently, microfiber products are becoming increasingly popular and tend to replace some cotton products. As new products are emerging, the industry must embrace innovation. Thus, I encourage young generations to pursue your dream. If you have opportunity to inherit or join the textile and apparel industry, let the story continues. I deeply believe that the textile industry is NOT sunset industry, it will be a sustainable inheritance and never be wipe out.
~By Mr. Tan Wah Ching on 23/7/2018
2. Wah Foong Knitting Factory (KL) Sdn. Bhd.
3. Samyu Knitting Factory Sdn. Bhd.
4. Tai Tatt Knitting Factory Sdn. Bhd.
5. Selangor Cotton Towel Mfg. Sdn. Bhd.
6. Lee Nam Knitting Industries Sdn. Bhd.
7. Chung Kai Knitting Factory Sdn. Bhd.
Later the MKMA was officially formed in the middle of the 1975, it first rented and later purchase the office lot in Choo Cheng Kay Building in Birch Road, Kuala Lumpur. Later when the Association expanded, it sold the said property and bought a 3-storey shop-lot in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. The property was purchased with the contribution from all its members.
In later 1975, the Association decided to adopt a logo and an advertisement was place in the local newspaper writing to public to contribute a drawing (design) for the MKMA magazine. Eventually, a logo was adopt and a sum of RM500 was paid to the contributor.
In subsequent years, the knitting industry expanded and as most of its members was from the south, the Association decided purchase a shop-lot in Batu Pahat to serve as its office. It is my hope that the Association will grow from strength to strength and become one of the leading industries in Malaysia.
~ By Mr Hooi Hong Weng
1. The far vision & mission laid down by our founders;
2. The dedicated past leadership and loyalty management team.
Constantly face with the current & contemporary local and global challenges.
1. Minimum wage and manpower
2. Rapid and unprecedented business environment
3. Global trade protectionism versus liberalism
Future Prospect ahead of us:
1. Intensive application of Industry 4.0 to sustain the Textile & Apparel Industries.
2. The combination of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Human Intelligence (HI) to amplify into Super Intelligence to bring the industries to the next milestone.
3. The revolution of technologies, internet & web has change the landscape of supplier to buyer, Business to Business, Business to consumer & logistic dimension.
Let us work together as a TEAM – Together Everybody Achieve More, and look forward for the greater success for the industries.
What is the difference between Fourth Industrial Revolution and Industry 4.0?
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is an overarching industrial transformation that covers every aspect of industries and economic activities including every aspect of living. It is a total transformation of all sectors into new system and/or way of life that will change the way we do businesses. Current technological advances at times also considered as ‘disruptive technologies’ due to the convergence of the physical, digital and biological worlds.
Industry 4.0 is referred to as production or manufacturing based industries digitalisation transformation, driven by connected technologies. Industry 4.0 introduces what is referred to as “smart factory” in which cyber physical systems monitor real time physical progress of the factory and are able to make decentralized decisions. Other terminology includes Smart Manufacturing. Some regard Industry 4.0 as a subset of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
What are the main pillars of Industry 4.0?
The nine (9) technology drives/pillars are:
i. Autonomous Robots
ii. Big Data Analytics
iii. Cloud Computing
iv. Internet of Things (IoT)
v. Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)
vi. System Integration
vii. Cybersecurity
viii. Augmented Reality
ix. Simulation.
What are the benefits of moving on to Industry 4.0?
Benefits of industries moving in to Industry 4.0 are:
i. Increase in flexibility;
ii. Increased productivity, efficiency, quality and reduced time to market;
iii. More R&D&D activities; and
iv. Development of new skills and talent globally.
What are the major countries that have advanced to Industry 4.0?
“Industrie 4.0” is a term coined by the German Government’s strategic initiative to transform its secondary industry (manufacturing) as a leader in advanced manufacturing (or cyber physical system) provider as well as for its domestic manufacturing to be more efficient and cost effective. “Industrie 4.0” is a part of the overall High Tech Action Plan 2020 of Germany.
Different countries are using different terms to describe their national strategy in terms of Industry 4.0. Among other terms used include:
i. “Smart Manufacturing” in the United States;
ii. “Made in China 2025” for China;
iii. “Manufacturing Innovation 3.0” (South Korea);
iv. “Industrial Value Chain Initiative” Japan; and
v. “Smart Nation Programme” (Singapore).
What are the Government measures to promote Industry 4.0 adoption in Malaysia?
A national policy/framework on Industry 4.0 is currently being formulated by the Government. In May 2017, the Cabinet tasked MITI, MOSTI and MOHE to lead this initiative. A High Level Task Force (HLTF) led by MITI with members from relevant Ministries and Agencies has been established since March 2017 to spearhead development of whole of Government strategy for Industry 4.0 with strong stakeholders’ feedback including from the industry.
The Industry 4.0 HLTF has five (5) Technical Working Groups (TWGs):
i. Digital Infrastructure and Eco-system led by KKMM;
ii. Funding and Incentives led by MOF;
iii. Talent and Human Capital led by MOHR and MOHE;
iv. Technology and Standards led by MOSTI; and
v. SMEs led by SME Corp.
The TWGs are to identify challenges, analyse existing gaps and propose action to be taken accordingly. Recommendations will be included in the overall National Policy on Industry 4.0.
MITI and its agencies in collaboration with relevant Ministries and Agencies are also undertaking various outreach programmes to increase public/industry/academia/training institute’s awareness on Industry 4.0. Two (2) major outreach programmes were done nationally on 2 May 2017 and 15 June 2017. More outreach programmes are in the planning stage including at the state and regional levels.
The Government is also seeking feedback directly from stakeholders through various forms including one-to-one engagement sessions as well as online feedback through MITI’s website.
What are the focus sectors under the proposed National Policy on Industry 4.0?
The current economic plans (IMP3 and RMK11) are still relevant and remain as Malaysia’s mid-term policy guide until 2020. RMK11 (2016-2020) has identified the three (3) catalytic (E&E, M&E and Chemical) plus two (2) new growth (Aerospace and Medical Devices) sectors as game changers for the manufacturing sector. These sectors will continue as the focus sector together with other sectors such as automotive, petrochemicals, textiles and services.
· The overall National Policy is still being developed as such the list of focus sectors will be finalized later.
What is the vision for the Industry 4.0 National Policy?
The targets and vision is being deliberated in detail with stakeholders and industry before announcement on the policy is made.
Will there be any allocation provided by the Government to promote the adoption of Industry 4.0?
Targeted incentives and funding to promote adoption of Industry 4.0 will be deliberated in detail under the TWG for Incentives and Funding.
As the benefits of Industry 4.0 adoption impacts directly to companies, the private sector/industry on their own accord should invest in digitalization efforts. Industry efforts already exist but more concerted efforts from industry leaders need to be seen.
What is the current status of our industry?
Malaysia’s manufacturing sector as a whole varies in terms of where they are currently ranging between 2.0 (mass production) and 3.0 (automation). However, there are industry leads already in the process of moving towards Industry 4.0 or becoming Industry 4.0 compliant on their own.
The E&E, aerospace and the automotive sectors are more advanced in terms of Industry 4.0 adoption. The success stories by industry captains will be showcased as Industry 4.0 examples that can be emulated going forward.
What are the major challenges faced by industries in moving towards Industry 4.0 adoption?
Major challenges faced by industries in moving towards Industry 4.0 adoption include:
i. Lack of awareness on the concept of Industry 4.0 and its benefits;
ii. No clear comprehensive policy and coordination on Industry 4.0 in Malaysia;
iii. Infrastructure gaps particularly the digital infrastructure as well as ecosystem gaps;
iv. Lack of targeted incentives to incentivize more companies to move to Industry 4.0;
v. Mismatch skillsets and lack of right talent/human capital; and
vi. Lack of standards resulting in difficulty of integrating different systems and reliability issue.
here is also different challenges faced between MNCs and SMEs particularly where majority (40%) of SMEs are of the view that they do not need the internet based on FMM’s study on its SME members in 2016 done by Monash University.
What are the benefits for a company to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies when cheap/low-skilled labour can be obtained through employing foreign workers?
· The Government is committed to move away from low-skilled/foreign workers dependency particularly for the manufacturing sector. Adopting new technology to ensure companies be more efficient and productive will be in tandem with global trends.
Cheap labour is unsustainable in the long run and prone to human errors thus reducing the quality of products produced. A prime example is China that is moving towards digitalization on a large scale despite the abundance of cheap labour in the country. The adoption of Industry 4.0 in this type of organization will increase efficiency and promote zero-defect outputs.
A study by The Boston Consulting Group has stated that rapid adoption of Industry 4.0 could boost labour productivity by as much as 30 percent by 2024.
With the fast changing nature of technology, is adopting Industry 4.0 sustainable?
Yes, because every organization needs to constantly reinvent itself and the adoption of Industry 4.0 can be considered as part of the upgrading process.
To ensure sustainability in the long run, digital transformation must be done with the aim of solving important business issues faced in the manufacturing process.
Global trends show companies that are not confined to the traditional way of doing things and utilize technology to its advantage have a higher chance of remaining relevant and successful in the long run.
As Industry 4.0 utilizes cyber physical systems, are cyber security risk issues properly addressed and what are the steps taken to eliminate cyber-crime?
Cyber security is key in achieving a truly digital nation. Hence, one of the technology driver in the nine (9) pillars is Cybersecurity. Our Government through CyberSecurity Malaysia has instituted a broad range of innovation-led cyber security programmes and initiatives to fulfill its mandate accordingly.
Malaysia is currently ranked third globally among 193 International Telecom Union members, in terms of the level of national commitment to addressing cyber-security risks. Malaysia is also among the top scorers in the Technical Performance Index of the Global Cybersecurity Index 2017.
Is there a starting point/checklist for companies to adopt Industry 4.0?
There is no one size fits all solution in moving towards Industry 4.0 at the firm level as it depends on the aim of each company. Any improvements either incremental or leap forging towards Industry 4.0 will result in positive improvements at the firm level in terms of productivity and efficiency.
Each company must decide what would be its end goal before finding out the technological options available for use. More often companies would need to be convinced or test run solutions before they can run with its full implementation. They first need to be aware of where they are currently and to ensure that it has its value stream map/an overall mapping out of the whole production line from sourcing raw materials to production until products are shipped to the intended customers.
Although Sri Lanka has a similar minimum wage, most employees earn a far higher monthly salary in this country. Even in Myanmar, the minimum wage have been sharply increased from May 14th, 2018. From 108,000 kyat (USD142) per month, the minimum wage has surged to 144,000 kyat, up 33%.
In Laos, the minimum wage has been sharply increased in May from 900,000 to 1.1 million kip (USD138) per month.
Cambodia on raised the minimum monthly wage for workers in its crucial textiles and footwear industry to $182, an increase of seven percent, with effect from January, 2019.The garment industry is Cambodia’s largest employer, generating $7 billion for the economy each year. Garment exports grew 16.1 percent in the first half over the corresponding 2017 period.
The minimum wage for textile, garment and shoe workers for 2019 is set at $182 per month. The new wage takes effect from January 2019. The current minimum wage, at $170.
The garment industry employs an estimated 700,000 Cambodians, helping to provide livelihoods in one of the world’s poorest countries.
The new wage fell short of a proposal of $189 put forward by major unions.
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Mexico Raises Minimum Wage Starting Jan 1
The Mexican Government has raised its daily minimum wage by 16.2 per cent effective January 1 from 88.36 pesos to 102.68 pesos. Mexicans working in the northern border will, however, see their salaries double as their minimum wage will be 176.72 pesos per day. The minimum monthly wage of $102 a month is still less than the Latin American average.
Workers in Mexico work longer hours than those in any other country but earn some of the lowest salaries.
Minimum wage goes up in California on Jan. 1, 2019
California’s minimum wage is going up by a buck to $12 an hour for companies with more than 25 employees. Most Bay Area cities already have higher minimum wages.
On Jan. 1, San Jose, San Mateo, and several other cities will boost their minimum to $15, and in Mountain View, it will increase to $15.65.
This increase will be delayed one year for companies with 25 employees or less.
In 2016, Gov. Jerry Brown signed a law that would gradually increase the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2022. The law went into effect Jan. 1, 2017.
Many sourcing countries will see minimum wage hikes in 2019. The wage hikes will affect the costs of apparel sourcing. Already apparel manufacturers have started to negotiate for increased price from buyers as wage upsurge has made their production costs higher.
Here’s a look at wage rates that have risen this year or are on track to increase when 2019 hits.
Table: Minimum Monthly Wages of Workers in Different Countries.
Countries | Wage rates to be implemented from 2019 (USD) |
---|---|
China | 200 |
Vietnam | 180 |
Mexico | 211 |
Honduras | 446 |
Bangladesh | 95 |
Combodia | 182 |
Myanmar | 73 |
Tunisia | 102-120 |
Lesotho | 138 |
South Africa | 271 |
Average minimum wage in China is over US$ 200 a month now. Basic wages in several regions of the country are expected to rise during 2019.
Vietnam
Vietnam’s National Wage Council has proposed to increase the minimum wage by 5.3 percent in 2019. The proposed hike, which is the lowest compared to previous years, will increase the minimum wage in the four regions by US$7-9 per month. In 2018, the increase was 6.5 percent, while in 2017 the minimum wage was hiked by 7.3 percent.
From this January, monthly minimum wages will increase in Vietnam—depending on the cost of living in each region—between 2.92 million Vietnamese dongs ($125) to 4.18 million dongs ($180).
Mexico
Sourcing in Mexico will be more costly in 2019. The country’s wage commission recently said that it will raise the minimum wage in Mexico by 16 percent to roughly $5 a day—and the hikes will continue in line with inflation.
It’s a 71 cents per day increase and the largest percentage pay raise Mexico has seen since 1996. The new rate will be 102.68 pesos ($5.12) a day, which works out to roughly $122 a month based on a six-day work week. In regions closest to the United States, the daily rate will be 176.72 pesos ($8.81), which works out to roughly $211 a month.
Honduras
By 2023, the minimum wage in Honduras will have increased by 38.5 percent.
The Honduran Maquila Association (AHM), which represents apparel manufacturers in the country, recently said the minimum wage will increase by 8 percent this year, 7.5 percent for each of the following three years through 2022, and in 2023 the wage will go up by another 8 percent.
According to AHM, the current monthly minimum wage for garment workers in Honduras is $446.
Bangladesh
Since 2013, the monthly minimum wage rate in Bangladesh has been 5,300 taka ($63), but as per an agreement made in September 2018, the rate was rised to 8,000 taka ($95) in December, 2018.
According to Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), the current monthly minimum wage for garment workers in Bangladesh is $95 which is increased by 51 percent.
Cambodia
Cambodia recently raised the minimum monthly wage for workers in its crucial textiles and footwear industry to $182, an increase of seven percent, with effect from January, 2019.
Cambodia hiked the monthly minimum wage for garment workers by $12 from the current $170.
Myanmar
As of April 2018, the minimum wage in Myanmar went up 33 percent to 4,800 kyat ($3) a day. The previous minimum wage of K3600 was set in September 2015.
The workers, on the other hand, said that K4800 would not be enough to sustain families amid steadily rising prices for basic commodities. They want the minimum wage to be at least K5600.
With the already-in-place increase, workers in Myanmar are earning roughly $73 a month.
Tunisia
In October, the Tunisian Federation of Textiles and Clothing (FTTH) and the Tunisian General Labor Union (UGTT), reached an agreement to raise the minimum wages 6.5 percent in 2019. In 2020, the wage rate will go up by another 6.5 percent.
The most recent reports on the country’s monthly minimum wage, the rate ranging 340 Tunisian dinars ($120) per month for a 48-hour workweek and 290 dinars ($102) per month for a 40‑hour workweek.
Lesotho
In August 2018, the monthly minimum wage in the southern African country increased 62 percent to $138 a month from $85 before the hike. The increased amount came as the result of pushback from workers and unions after the country’s Ministry of Labor had earlier suggested just a 7 percent increase, which unions deemed insufficient to accommodate inflation.
South Africa
In the same region, wages in South Africa will rise again in 2019.
August saw the Southern African Clothing and Textile Workers’ Union (SACTWU) settle its wage negotiations for the year, agreeing on a 7.75 percent increase that was retroactive to July 1, 2018. In 2019, the rate will increase another 7.5 percent to 20 South African rand ($1.39) an hour, which amounts to a monthly wage rate of 3,900 ($271) based on a 9-hour work day.
Worldwide awareness and demand of organic garments is increasing with time. This got confirmed with the new and increased figures of Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) which show continued significant growth. According to official information, in 2018, the number of GOTS certified facilities showed an increase of 14.6 per cent from 5,024 to 5,760 facilities. Certified facilities are now located in 64 countries around the globe. The progress is seen in both production and consuming regions.
India is leading at many fronts as far as GOTS is concerned. Besides a thriving export market, India has an emerging domestic market for organic textiles. Several new brands have started offering GOTS goods in domestic sector during year 2018 and two major brands are planning to do so this year.
Manufacturing partnerships are growing as demand for Piñatex increases
GOTS certification covers the processing of certified organic fibres along the entire supply chain from field to finished product.
Top ten countries in terms of total number of certified facilities
India | Bangladesh | Turkey | Germany | Italy | China | Pakistan | Portugal | US | S. Korea |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1973 | 689 | 519 | 500 | 340 | 301 | 238 | 215 | 127 | 85 |
Piñatex nonwovens begin life as pineapple leaves.
Some 13 million metric tons of pineapple leaves each year typically are burned or left to rot after the fruit is harvested. Using the discarded leaves for Piñatex doesn’t require any additional land, water, fertilizer or pesticides and can provide additional income opportunities for pineapple farming communities.
The pineapple leaves go through seven steps on their way to becoming Piñatex — harvesting, decorticating, washing, drying, degumming, nonwoven formation and finishing. Decortication involves extracting the long fibers from the leaves. Biomass generated during the process may be used as a natural fertilizer or biofuel, so nothing is wasted. After the gum is removed from the fibers, they are made into a nonwoven mesh, which is finished in Spain. The specialized finishing process gives the nonwoven material a unique character and leather-like appearance.
Manufacturing partnerships are growing as demand for Piñatex increases
Piñatex is soft, lightweight, durable, flexible and breathable. The nonwoven has applications in a multitude of products from apparel, accessories and footwear to furniture and automotive upholstery.
Date | Event | Contact |
---|---|---|
15-16 Jan, 2020 | The London Textile Fair in UK | The London Textile Fair T: +44 (0)20 8347 8145 M: +44 (0)78 6088 7447 https://www.thelondontextilefair.co.uk/ |
20-22 Jan, 2020 | 3rd Fashion Goods & Accessories Expo Tokyo in Japan | Reed Exhibition Link |
Jan, 2020 | Premiere Vision New York City -Exhibition for Fabrics in USA | Première Vision Tel: +33 (0)4 72606500 Fax: +33 (0)4 72606549 mp.pellet-arnaud@premierevision.fr www.premierevision.fr |
Mar, 2020 | Yarn Expo -Trade fair for fibres and yarns in Shanghai, China | Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. Tel: +85 2 28027728 Fax: +85 2 25988771 info@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com www.messefrankfurt.com.hk |
1-3 April, 2020 | FASHION WEAR EXPO TOKYO TEXTILE TOKYO in Japan |
Reed Exhibitions Japan Ltd. Link |
20-22 Jul, 2020 | Hometextiles Sourcing in New York, USA | Messe Frankfurt, Inc. Tel: +1 (4)04 7709848016 Fax: +1 (4)04 7709848023 info@usa.messefrankfurt.com www.usa.messefrankfurt.com |
25-27 Nov 2020 | Intex South Asia in Dhaka, India | Worldex India Exhibition & Promotion Pvt. Ltd. Tel: +91 (0)22 40376700 Fax: +91 (0)22 24962297 www.worldexindia.com |
Nov 2020 | EGYTEX Cairo in Egypt | Sahara Group info@saharagroup.com www.saharagroup.com |
Often the industry argues whether the customers pay for sustainability?
Yes, a global survey of Cotton US confirms so. It says that 86 per cent of the people globally are considering sustainability and the impact their decisions have on the environment across various parts of day-to-day life.
This is a growing concern, as 57% of people also say that they have thought more about sustainability over the past year.
The survey included a total of 7,365 interviews that were conducted in major markets like US, UK, India, Germany, Italy, Mexico and China. It is noteworthy that at least 1,000 interviews were done in each country.
61% of those surveyed say that they are concerned about sustainability and environmental impacts when purchasing clothing. As part of this, nearly two-thirds of people also said they would put a lot of effort into finding clothing labelled as “environmentally-friendly.”
Now, why they are concerned about sustainability! 38% of consumers said that supporting brands and retailers that are making a conscious positive impact on the environment was paramount. This was followed by taking a stand against those that do not treat their employees fairly (35%) or do not demonstrate sustainability practices as a part of their manufacturing process (33%).
It is interesting to know that despite the fact that the demand of Man-Made Fibres (MMF)-based garment is growing globally, 83% consumers around the world believed cotton is safe for the environment.
When asked how they perceive US cotton, consumers considered it to be more sustainable (39%), responsibly-produced (40 per cent) and of higher quality (43%) than cotton grown in other parts of the world.
US cotton is considered a more environment-friendly choice than that developed in other markets (69%). This includes cotton from Australia (65%), India (64%), Africa (60%), China (56%) or Uzbek (53%).
Minimum wages have not changed in the past months, in most low-income countries. They have however been significantly raised where inflation rates have recently rebounded, including in Pakistan or Egypt.
Minimum wages have remained unchanged in most Asian countries in the first eight months of the year, however experiencing a rise in a series of low-income countries around the Mediterranean sea.
Before January 1st, there is still possible to raise minimum wages before the start of the new year.
Minimum wage in Cambodia rises to $190 in 2020
The minimum wage for workers in the textile, garment and footwear sectors in Cambodia has increased to $190 for 2020The minimum wage for workers in the textile, garment and footwear sectors in Cambodia has increased to $190 for 2020.
In Vietnam and Indonesia, the level of minimum wages is usually announced in advance and updated at the start of the new year.Both countries have experienced a significant rise in their minimum wages in the last years, resulting in a loss of their competitive advantage.
In Bangladesh, the minimum wage has been substantially increased at the end of 2018 for five years.
India streamlining complex system
In India, new labor law is aimed at simplifying a very complex system with hundreds of minimum wages currently in effect.
Under the new law, authorities may limit the number of minimum wages, as only the skill level and the location will be taken into account.
In China, in the meantime, minimum wages have been raised in Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, and Shanxi, whereas staying unmoved in most other provinces.
<pEgypt
Minimum wages have been sharply raised in Egypt for the same reason, with monthly salary up 67% a few months ago, after the local currency has significantly fallen in the past years and inflation rates have rebounded.
The country looks returning to a more stable economic picture, however.
Minimum wages have also been raised in Morocco (+5%) and in Tunisia (+6%), in Macedonia, and in Bulgaria.
Minimum wages have significantly increased since January 2015, as reflected by our below data.
If taking into account the change in currency values, however, they have slightly dropped in the past months, in US$ terms.
Inflation rates have climbed further in low-income countries, triggering a new alarm for apparel buyers in Western countries, already confronted with a new wave of protectionism and the outbreak of the coronavirus.
Already hit by the impact of the coronavirus, the US additional tariffs (for US buyers), and the fall of the euro and the Sterling (for European buyers), clothing importers should also pay attention to the rising inflation rates in low-cost countries.
January data have confirmed the upward trend which had already been detected a month ago.In China, India, Pakistan, Turkey, and Vietnam, consumer prices have risen at a higher pace in January than in December, when they had already climbed. In Bangladesh, the inflation rate has stayed stable, by contrast.In China, prices have risen by 5.4% in January, after increasing by 4.5% in December from a year earlier.
It is impossible to estimate what will be the change in the CPI (Consumer Price Index) in February after retail sales will have been erased by the coronavirus crisis. No less worrying, the inflation rate has climbed further in Pakistan, reaching 13.07% in the first month of the year.
With the Pak. Rupee now stabilized, exporters may find it difficult to raise wages in line with the jump in the cost of living in the country. In Vietnam, the CPI has surged in two months only, from 3.5% to 6.4%.Wages have already been significantly raised in the past years, and rebound in inflation rates could make it more difficult to compete with low-cost countries like Bangladesh.
Products: 61 (Articles of Apparel and Clothing Accessories, Knitted or Crocheted)
Products: 62 (Articles of Apparel and Clothing Accessories, Not Knitted or Crocheted)
Value: Year to Date through November 2019
UK Import of apparel and clothing accessories for the period of January-November 2019 was valued at £16.5 billion, with China continued being the largest supplier commanding 18.7% market share. Cambodia remains as the largest exporter to the UK from ASEAN region, while Malaysia is ranked 51st with the value of £9.1 million.
Date | Event | Contact |
---|---|---|
01-03 Sept, 2020 | Munich Fabric Start in Germany | Munichfabricstart Exhibitions GmbH Thomas-Wimmer-Ring 17 80539 Munich, Germany Tel: +49 (0)89 4522470 Fax: +49 (0)89 45224722 cg@munichfabricstart.com www.munichfabricstart.com |
02-04 Sept, 2020 | Cinte Techtextil China in China | Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. 35/F China Resources Building, Harbour Road Wanchai Hong Kong, China Tel: +85 2 28027728 Fax: +85 2 25988771 info@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com www.messefrankfurt.com.hk |
02-04 Sept, 2020 | INTERFABRIC Moscow in Moscow | LegPromMedia LLC Malaya Semenovskaya Str., 3A 107023 Moscow, Russian Federation expo@souzlegprom.ru www.interfabric.ru |
23-25 Sept, 2020 | Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics in Shanghai | Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. 35/F China Resources Building, Harbour Road Wanchai Hong Kong, China Tel: +85 2 28027728 Fax: +85 2 25988771 info@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com www.messefrankfurt.com.hk |
23-25 Sept, 2020 | Yarn Expo Shanghai in Shanghai | Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. 35/F China Resources Building, Harbour Road Wanchai Hong Kong, China Tel: +85 2 28027728 Fax: +85 2 25988771 info@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com www.messefrankfurt.com.hk |
Date | Event | Contact |
---|---|---|
26-28 Jan, 2021 | Techtextil Russia in Moscow | Messe Frankfurt RUS O.O.O. Leningradsky Prospekt 39 A 125167 Moscow, Russian Federation Tel: +7 (4)95 6498775 Fax: +7 (4)95 6498785 info@russia.messefrankfurt.com www.messefrankfurt.ru |
1-4 Feb, 2021 | Texworld Paris Spring 2021 in Paris | Messe Frankfurt France S.a.s. https://texworld-paris.fr.messefrankfurt.com/paris/en.html |
1-4 Feb, 2021 | Apparel Sourcing Paris Fall 2021 in Paris | Messe Frankfurt France S.a.s. https://apparel-sourcing-paris.fr.messefrankfurt.com/paris/en.html |
9-12 Mar, 2021 | FESPA Global Print Expo 2021 in Netherlands | Messe Frankfurt RUS O.O.O. Federation of European Screen Printers Associations (FESPA) https://www.fespaglobalprintexpo.com/ |
19-21 Mar, 2021 | Denim Show Mumbai in Bombay | Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt. Ltd. MEX Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd. https://www.gartexindia.com/denimshow/ |
25-28 Mar, 2021 | Morocco Fashion & Tex in Casablanca | Pyramids Grup Fuarcılık A.Ş. Kucukbakkalkoy Mah. Kocasinan Cad.Gumrukcu Sok.No.8 34750 Istanbul, Turkey info@pyramidsfair.com www.pyramidsfair.com |
During quarantine, the fashion world is saying goodbye to formal wears, however, the comfortable/casual wears becoming mainstream fashion concepts. In this pandemic, comfortable wear demand and sales are increasing rapidly. As of April, pyjamas sales had increased by 143% and tracksuits and jumpsuit sales had increased by 70% and 80% respectively.
Casual wear wouldn’t look out of place in most workplaces and classrooms currently. Students with no intention of going to the gym on a given day have transformed yoga pants and chunky sneakers into fashionable uniforms on campus. In this time, fitness for the masses came with a need for new attire – especially for women. Historically, women’s apparel – consisting of floor-length gowns, corsets and petticoats – had been extremely involved and preventive. However, following the Industrial Revolution, the introduction of modern sportswear and the high levels of comfort it publicized led women to call a more functional wardrobe and less confining clothing.
Many companies in Silicon Valley have adopted the simple look of plain t-shirts and denim jeans, popularized by tech moguls like Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg and Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel. But, even before Zuckerberg, Apple CEO Steve Jobs was known for wearing black turtlenecks and New Balance sneakers in his keynote speeches.
In essence, the long history of the evolution of clothing every sector of the people has transformed their fashion concept day by day and individuals are very thoughtful about this.