Emerging industries get married, textiles and garments boost industry transformation and upgrading
The textile industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, especially during the "Eleventh Five-Year Plan" period. Xu Kunyuan, vice president of the China National Textile and Apparel Industry Association, emphasized that the focus was on scientific research and the industrialization of technological achievements. Key areas such as high-performance materials, advanced spinning and weaving technologies, high-tech dyeing and finishing, and energy-saving solutions saw significant progress. These innovations have not only enhanced the industry's capabilities but also helped it integrate with emerging sectors, bringing new life to this traditional field.
Over time, textiles have evolved beyond their conventional role, merging with various disciplines and expanding into high-tech fields. Technical textiles, in particular, have gained prominence, showing great potential for growth. The aerospace and textile industries, once seen as separate, found common ground in projects like the Shenzhou spacecraft and Chang'e II mission. Advanced three-dimensional weaving and composite material technologies developed by institutions like Tianjin Polytechnic University played a vital role in these space missions, highlighting the growing synergy between textiles and cutting-edge science.
During the "Eleventh Five-Year Plan," universities and research institutions focused on developing high-performance materials and industrial textiles. For example, the development of three-dimensional braided composites for satellite structures and the creation of functional hollow fiber membranes for new energy applications demonstrated the industry's shift toward innovation. These advancements led to a 52.13% contribution rate from textile technology, with a 20% annual increase in investment in emerging sectors.
Companies like Shandong Dezhou Zhongyuan Group are also embracing this change. Faced with rising costs and shrinking profits, many textile entrepreneurs are exploring new areas like nonwovens and high-performance fibers. Liu Zhitao, the company’s general manager, is moving towards nonwoven products, driven by the demand for materials used in electric vehicles and other advanced applications. This shift reflects a broader trend where traditional textile firms are seeking new growth opportunities through innovation.
The output of industrial textiles in China reached 7.232 million tons in 2009, exceeding targets set in the "Eleventh Five-Year Plan." Medical bio-textiles, though still in early stages, are growing rapidly, with SMS nonwovens seeing explosive production increases. Meanwhile, the textile machinery market grew significantly, with investments in high-end equipment fueling industrial upgrades.
Looking ahead, the "Twelfth Five-Year Plan" outlines a clear roadmap for the textile industry, focusing on 50 key technologies and promoting 110 advanced ones. From basic research to smart manufacturing and information technology, these efforts signal a deeper integration with emerging industries. As the sector continues to evolve, its impact on employment, rural income, and regional development will remain significant.
In conclusion, the textile industry is no longer just about fabric—it's now a driving force behind innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. With emerging industries playing a crucial role, the future of textiles looks brighter than ever.
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