April 2008 sees the launch of a brand new publication from Textiles Intelligence, in association with Netherlands-based International Apparel Federation (IAF).

Global apparel exports are valued at more than US$310 bn a year, of which the world’s top 15 clothing exporters account for more than 80%, according to Textiles Intelligence, the world’s leading provider of business and strategy information on the global textile and apparel industries.

The elimination of global export quotas has led to intense competition from, and among, manufacturers in low cost countries. As a result, retail buyers are placing ever stricter demands on apparel manufacturers in terms of product quality and delivery times. To make things even more challenging, clothing firms face rising raw material costs, high energy prices and an uncertain economy in 2008.

Global Apparel Markets will be published four times a year by Textiles Intelligence, and will provide decision makers with a regular source of in-depth information about developments – including sourcing options – in the global apparel sector.

Each issue of Global Apparel Markets will contain a short editorial feature which contains insight and authoritative analysis from our team of experts; a detailed research-based report or company profile covering information on such issues as sourcing, developments in technology, colour and/or fabric trends, market sectors such as discount retailing, or other issues which affect companies in the apparel industry; a round-up of developments and innovations in the apparel sector; a statistics-based feature on trade and trade policy; and advice from industry experts on strategy.