Insights Eurozone manufacturing grew for a third month in May, with the PMI rising to 49.4. Greece led, while Spain returned to expansion. France nearly stabilised; Germany remained weakest. Demand steadied, export orders improved, and business confidence hit a 27-month high. Input costs fell, aiding ECB rate cut prospects, says HCOB's de la Rubia. The euro area manufacturing sector recorded its third consecutive month of output growth in May, reflecting stabilising demand and easing contract

Insights China has accused the US of violating the May trade truce, warning of “resolute” countermeasures if US actions continue. The truce had temporarily eased tariffs, but tensions have risen again over chip export curbs and visa bans. While US officials allege China has not upheld its part, Beijing rejected the claims. Trump and Xi are expected to speak this week. China yesterday accused the United States of ‘seriously violating’ the May trade truce concluded in Ge

Insights Fitch Ratings has downgraded its 2025 outlook for the US retail and consumer products sector to 'deteriorating', citing tariff uncertainty, soft consumer demand, and sourcing risks, especially for soft goods retailers. Apparel and footwear sales are expected to decline mid-single digits, pressuring margins. While firms like Dillard's remain resilient, others like Capri Holdings face heightened risk. Fitch Ratings has warned that ongoing trade tariff uncertainties continue to pose exe

Insights The International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network has called on the fashion retail sector and textile industry to review their practices to ensure their environmental claims comply with consumer law. It urges retailers to avoid using vague claims like terming apparel as conscious, green or sustainable, and warns against overstating the significance of their environmental measures. A joint open letter by members of the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Netw

Insights Uncertainty defines the global economic environment, the WEF's latest Chief Economists Outlook noted; 82 per cent see it as very high now. The growth outlook is divided, with weak prospects in North America, APAC resilience and cautious optimism in Europe. The most optimism about a strong economic expansion in South Asia, with India set to be the primary engine of growth this year and the next. Uncertainty is the defining theme of the global economic environment, according to the Wor

Key Takeaways Socks have evolved from necessities to key fashion items in men's wardrobes. Eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, bamboo, and recycled polyester lead the way in sustainability. Modern designs prioritise comfort with features such as moisture-wicking fabrics and cushioned soles. Future advancements include smart textiles and temperature-regulating fibres. Socks, once regarded merely as a necessity, are now evolving into a key component of men's fashion. No longer limite

Insights Port congestion is worsening across key hubs in Northern Europe and major global ports like Shenzhen, Los Angeles, and New York, driven by labour shortages, strikes, and inland transport issues. Berth waiting times and logistics costs are rising sharply. Carriers are imposing surcharges, while spot rates surge amid an early peak season influenced by US–China tariff uncertainty. Port congestion is intensifying across major global trade routes, with Northern Europe’s key hu

Insights AATCC's Circularity Conference, set for June 17–18, 2025, at the University of Rhode Island, will feature 15+ expert speakers on circular systems in textiles. Keynote speaker David Hinks will open the event. It is part of AATCC's ongoing sustainability series, following successful events on PFAS and fibre sustainability. The American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) announces that registration is closing soon for its highly anticipated Circularity Conferen

Insights President Donald Trump recently said he agreed to delay imposing a 50-per cent tariff on imports from the EU till July 9 after receiving a call from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “The Commission President said that talks will begin rapidly,” he wrote on Truth Social. “Europe is ready to advance talks swiftly and decisively,” von der Leyen wrote on the social media platform. President Donald Trump recently said he agreed to delay imposing

Insights CFIN has launched a landmark report outlining practical steps towards circularity in UK fashion. Backed by 42 per cent of UK clothing sales, CFIN proposes a National Textile Recycling Infrastructure Plan and highlights opportunities in resale, repair, and takeback. The report calls for systemic change through EPR policy, investment in automation, and reshoring. The Circular Fashion Innovation Network (CFIN), which is part of the British Fashion Council’s Institute of Positive F