April 22, 2025
This year, the ‘April showers’ seem to be all about a raining down of tariffs. While the news on duties changes almost daily, the volatility is causing steady disruption in the apparel and textiles supply chain.
First came a universal 10 percent tariff on all goods coming into the United States, and then came reciprocal tariffs which varied by country. When announced, these extra tariffs on the top five countries making up the bulk of U.S. imports were steep. For Vietnam they were to be 46 percent, 37 percent for Bangladesh, 32 percent for Indonesia and 27 percent for India. Those tariffs were set to take effect on April 9, but on the same day, the Trump Administration issued a 90-day pause for all countries except China.
Now, tariffs on imports from China are up to 145 percent as the U.S. and its largest supplier are locked in battle, launching tariffs back and forth (China’s tariff on goods from the U.S. is now 125 percent) with neither side showing any signs of backing down.
These tariffs, particularly on Chinese apparel and footwear, are poised to significantly increase clothing prices for American consumers, according to a recent article by CNBC. With 97 percent of clothing and shoes imported—primarily from China and Vietnam—the burden of these tariffs will fall squarely on those bringing in U.S. goods and those shopping stateside.
“The 2025 tariffs disproportionately affect clothing and textiles, with consumers facing 64% higher apparel prices in the short-run,” CNBC wrote, citing forecasts by the Yale University Budget Lab. “Apparel prices will stay 27% higher in the long-run.”
Consumers are already shifting their shopping behavior, as the article reported. Nearly three-quarters said they’ve already traded down to more affordable brands or are turning to pre-owned options. It’s hard to tell what the industry will look like in a few years’ time, but projections peg 55 percent growth in online resale platforms by 2029 as cost-conscious consumers look for both tariff-free and sustainable options.
While China sits in the midst of the ongoing trade war, we’re highlighting pavilions to support diversified sourcing at this summer’s shows.
Pavilions Galore at Texworld NYC and Apparel Sourcing NYC
VIETNAM
The Investment & Trade Promotion Centre of Ho Chi Minh City (ITPC) spearheads Vietnam’s presence at Texworld and Apparel Sourcing, featuring a diverse array of exhibitors specializing in knitwear, woven apparel, footwear and bags. This initiative aims to strengthen trade relations with U.S. apparel businesses and highlight Vietnam’s growing capacity and innovation in the textile industry.
KOREA
The Korea Textile Trade Association (KTTA) brings a strong lineup of Korean manufacturers to Texworld and Apparel Sourcing, emphasizing technical expertise, trend-forward design and quality textiles. With a focus on innovation and global competitiveness, KTTA supports Korea’s position as a leader in the functional and fashion-forward fabric solutions.
TAIWAN
The Taiwan Textile Federation (TTF) promotes Taiwan’s innovative and sustainable textile industry on the global stage. At Texworld and Apparel Sourcing, TTF showcases a curated selection of Taiwanese suppliers, connecting them with international buyers and highlighting the island’s cutting-edge textile solutions.
UZBEKISTAN
The Uztekstilprom Association works diligently to undertake numerous projects aimed at supporting national textile enterprises and clusters. Initiatives in areas such as dual education, standardization and certification, promotion of national brands, building sustainability and traceability in supply chains, and improving productivity are enabling local enterprises to elevate their capabilities and establish cooperation with global brands and retailers. As part of its ongoing efforts to expand international collaboration, Uztekstilprom will also be bringing a delegation of national manufacturers to participate in Texworld and Apparel Sourcing NYC, showcasing Uzbekistan’s growing presence in the global textile industry.
Get ready for new Trends this Summer: Doneger | TOBE returns this Summer!
We’re in the mood for things to look forward to, and the wealth of colors, textiles, styles and trends set to be a part of the Doneger | TOBE trend showcase is definitely one of them. The curated range will bring the latest in material innovations, color palettes and themes shaping what fashion will be in the future. Be sure to check it out at Texworld NYC to know what’s next.
B2B Matchmaking at Texworld NYC and Texworld LA!
Take your sourcing to the next level with B2B Matchmaking at both Texworld NYC and Texworld LA! Whether you’re looking for new suppliers, innovative products, or strategic partnerships, our matchmaking program helps you connect with the right exhibitors and attendees based on your unique business needs. Don’t miss this opportunity to make meaningful connections and fast-track your goals—sign up today and make every meeting count!
What We’re Reading
Tariffs Won’t Kill Fast Fashion, But They Might Kill Sustainable Fashion
While 2030 might have sounded far away for sustainability promises that started rolling in a few years ago, the date is fast approaching and the progress is proving slower than many had hoped. Now, as Kenneth P. Pucker writes in a recent Business of Fashion article, tariffs will deal that sustainability progress another blow as the added financial pressure will push brands to cut costs and sustainability is often early up on the chopping block.
Unsustainable Fashion and Textiles in Focus for International Day of Zero Waste 2025
The most recent International Day of Zero Waste on March 30, saw UN leaders reissuing calls for a circular economy and innovation to support it. According to a UN Environment Programme article, global textile production continues to swell and in 2023, just 8 percent of fibers used were recycled. This year, UN-Habitat highlighted global zero waste initiatives, particularly where unmanaged waste continues to plague low-income countries and pollute landfills.
Can Plants Replace Petroleum? Biobased Nylon Innovators Say Yes
Textiles may be on their way to a breakthrough in being greener. A recent Sourcing Journal article highlighted biobased materials like bacteria and castor beans that are replacing fossil fuels to make synthetics less harmful. Scientists in South Korea have successfully turned microbes into a first-of-its-kind nylon-like plastic. Along with this announcement, other updates from fashion and textile companies might signal an accelerated push to decarbonize without sacrificing performance.