Dr. Chanchai Sirikasemlert, Executive Director, Thailand Textile Institute (THTI), stated that the textile and garment industry remains a vital pillar of Thailand's economy, playing a significant role in employment and value creation. In the first five months of this year, export value reached 2.555.3 million USD, marking a 0.2% increase despite trade pressures from trading partners such as Japan, China, and Vietnam. Therefore, entrepreneurs must now accelerate their transition toward the "Twin Transition" of sustainability and digital technology utilizing social media to build customer networks and incorporating technology into production processes.
Today, textiles are not limited to fashion but have expanded into areas such as Smart Textiles that integrate electronic devices, AI that helps enhance production efficiency, Circular Economy solutions that align with sustainability goals, and Technical Textiles for medical and healthcare applications.
Mr. Chaiyot Rungcharoenchai, Managing Director of Perma Corporation Co., Ltd., the innovator and manufacturer of antibacterial textiles under the brand Perma, emphasized the role and rising significance of Smart Textiles: "Smart Textiles are fabrics enhanced by or integrated with technology to enable interaction with users or their surroundings. They include properties such as antibacterial functionality, fire prevention, temperature control, or the ability to measure heart rate. By leveraging IoT technology to build upon existing innovations to meet consumer demands that go beyond basic functions. Making Smart Textiles as a key driver that will help enhance new experiences, making life more convenient, safer, and more effectively meet the needs of individualized lifestyles—whether in automotive, medical devices, agriculture, furniture, or any industry."
Mr. Kriangkrai Wangwijit, Managing Director of SKT Embroidery Co., Ltd., distributor of Ricoma and Brother computerized embroidery and printing machines, shared insights on manufacturing technologies adapting to current demands: "Today's next-generation manufacturing technologies allow entrepreneurs to produce small quantities cost-effectively, while still maintaining profitability, meeting specific customer demands more efficiently. Previously, manufacturers required bulk orders in the hundreds to stay profitable. Now, even orders of just tens can yield profit without carrying stock or high overhead costs. Technology is not limited to machines it includes faster working methods, smarter designs, and faster planning. Even small-scale manufacturers can now access high-quality production and export opportunities. Those who fail to adapt from traditional methods may fall behind competitors who use technology to boost speed, lower costs, and better meet market demands. Thus, the intelligent and targeted application of technology is a crucial key for survival and growth today."
Ms. Panrapee Kosiyabong, Managing Director of Awesomedough Co., Ltd., a one-stop OEM for garments offering comprehensive services from pattern making, cutting, sewing, and screen printing to packing, commented: "Production in the modern era means embracing sustainability has shifted from being merely an 'option' to a strategic 'necessity.' This transformation stems from multiple external pressures ranging from government regulations to rising expectations from environmentally conscious consumers, and businesses' own awareness of the value of reducing environmental and social impact. Implementing sustainable manufacturing principles is not just about creating a good corporate image it's a strategic investment for long-term survival and competitiveness of businesses. The industry must therefore adapt by accelerating the adoption of new technologies and innovations from environmentally friendly raw materials and reduced energy and water usage to efficient waste management and pollution control. This will drive added value creation and support the development of a future circular economy."
Mrs. Varaporn Dhamcharee, Managing Director of RX Tradex, emphasized GFT 2025's role as a central platform for innovation and business development: "GFT is not merely an exhibition stage. It's a curated space designed to be a breeding ground for innovation and business opportunities for every segment in the textile and garment ecosystem. Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to discover the most modern machinery and technology from around the world from upstream to downstream. This includes sustainable production solutions, automation systems, and Smart Textile innovations. The show also features seminars, hands-on workshops, and tailored business matching programs designed to equip participants with practical knowledge, spark new ideas, and unlock growth opportunities in the digital and circular economy era. GFT 2025 is truly a must-attend event for everyone in textile, garment, and textile-integrated industries that produce goods with textiles and garments."
In addition to over 200 exhibiting brands from many countries, GFT 2025 will feature several special showcases that highlight the industry's innovation and diversity. The "Functional Textile" zone will spotlight advanced textile innovations, including antibacterial fabrics and next-generation fibers from Japan designed for enhanced cooling and durability. The "My Style" zone will present professional-grade OEM and ODM manufacturers with extensive skills and experience, ready to fulfill orders of all sizes large, medium, or small. The "Soft Power & Sustainability" area, curated by the Thailand Textile Institute, will showcase eco-friendly fabrics made from natural fibers such as jute, banana, linen, and cotton. The event will also include engaging features such as the "GFT Inspire" stage, attendees will gain insights from veteran industry experts and next-generation entrepreneurs through a curated seminar series. Topics will span from fashion law and intellectual property to brand building. Workshops that will offer entrepreneurs a rare hands-on opportunity to experience the performance of next-generation machinery up close culminating in the creation of a truly one-of-a-kind, custom-made shirt.
GFT 2025 will be held from 23-26 July 2025 at Hall 100, BITEC, Bangkok. Onsite registration is free of charge. Participants can enjoy a wide range of interactive activities and receive exclusive giveaways from many exhibitors.
For more information, please visit: www.gftexpo.com or contact Tel. +66 2686 7222.
