In the midst of the US-China trade dispute, hundreds of Chinese companies willing to do business with the Canadians will make their way to the Apparel Textile Sourcing (ATS) in Canada. A first-of-its-kind showcase of top brands from China, ‘Avenue ATS’ will be unveiled at the three-day apparel and textile trade show beginning August 20, 2018.
More than 5,000 visitors including apparel and fashion executives, influencers, designers, retailers, importers, wholesalers, merchandisers, buyers and suppliers are expected to attend the international exhibition. Keynote speakers at the event include some of North America’s leading apparel and textile industry experts, ready to hone in on what the US-China trade issues mean for Canadians and potential repercussions for the sector.
Of the expert speakers, Bob Kirke, Executive Director, Canadian Apparel Federation, will provide a Canadian trade policy update on strengthening relationships with global markets, including China, which represents more than 40 per cent of Canadian apparel imports. Julia K Hughes, President, US Fashion Industry Association (USFIA), will speak about the United States Trade Policy Update and the Impact on NAFTA and TPP. Jeff Streader, global industry veteran and private equity partner, will share insight into the impact of artificial intelligence and digital disruption on the global supply chain. Sun Jiwen, Minister Counselor, Economic and Commercial Counselor’s office of the embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Canada, will head a panel on China’s Changing Role as a Front-runner in the Global Textile and Apparel Supply Chain.
“Canadians will learn all there is to know about succeeding in the country’s apparel and textile industry, and hear about China’s commitment to free trade with Canada and incentives for Canadian brands to work with China and other countries globally,” said Jason Prescott, CEO of JP Communications, ATSC producer.
“These are all highly successful, leading apparel brands in China, looking for partners to help grow their fashions globally. This is an unprecedented opportunity for Canadians to get first dibs on local market rights, with the support of experienced international industry players,” Prescott added.
“This is a not-to-be missed event for anyone wanting to make global industry connections. Nowhere else in Canada can you find this kind of opportunity for international apparel networking and product displays under one roof, without having to travel overseas,” he explained.
ATSC is supported by many international governments and associations, headed by the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Textile and Apparel (CCCT) and the Bangladesh High Commission on behalf of the Export Promotion Bureau and the Bangladesh Garment and Manufacturers Export Association. The event is also supported by the Taiwan Textile Association, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), India’s Apparel Export.
