This year, domestic cotton prices have continued to rise sharply. From April to May, after the Spring Festival, the market experienced a shortage, causing prices to skyrocket and reach over 17,000 yuan per ton—up by about 30% compared to the same period last year. Despite government measures introduced in June to stabilize the market, cotton prices still showed an upward trend. According to industry experts, this year’s domestic cotton supply and demand situation suggests that cotton will remain in high demand for the foreseeable future.
As a result, more companies are looking into alternative plant-based fibers. In response to this shift, some forward-thinking textile companies in Shishi have begun exploring non-cotton fiber options. Recently, Shishi Wen Hing Group introduced a range of new fabric samples that caught the attention of well-known garment manufacturers in Zhejiang. After testing the samples, two local enterprises placed orders, marking a significant step in the development of sustainable textiles.
The key innovation lies in the use of bio-based materials, such as corn stalks, which Wen Hing Group has successfully processed into fabric. This breakthrough marks a turning point, as previously most non-cotton fibers were imported. Now, with in-house production capabilities, the company is reducing reliance on external suppliers.
Wen Hing Group’s chairman, Ouyang Wensheng, stated that the move is driven by both rising cotton prices and increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. He emphasized that sustainability and low carbon footprint are now major priorities for both consumers and the industry. By developing bio-based fibers like corn, soybean, wheat, and sugarcane fibers, the company aims to meet these evolving needs.
In addition to its own R&D efforts, Wen Hing has partnered with leading institutions such as the China Textile Information Center and the National Textile Product Development Center. The group is also collaborating with Haitian Textile Group to establish a new production base in Shishang Jinshang Industrial Zone, where they are producing PTT bio-fiber using DuPont’s Sorona technology.
Bio-based fabrics offer unique advantages, including softness, elasticity, and breathability—making them ideal for summer clothing. Moreover, their production process uses less water and pesticides compared to traditional cotton, further enhancing their environmental appeal.
Industry observers believe that the future of the textile sector lies in the continuous development of new fibers and fabrics. With Shishi’s textile companies taking proactive steps, the region is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable fashion.
From bamboo fiber to recycled polyester, many companies are exploring innovative ways to reduce waste and increase resource efficiency. For instance, Long Textile from Taiwan is working on recycling plastic bottles into fabric, while other firms are experimenting with feather fibers—a promising new material with vast untapped potential.
As the global textile industry shifts toward sustainability, Shishi’s early investment in bio-based and recycled fibers could give it a competitive edge. With growing demand for green products and rising cotton costs, the city’s textile sector is well-positioned to lead the next wave of innovation.
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Jiangyin Xiangxu Textile Co., Ltd. , https://www.fabricxiangxu.com