New Markets
The rapid economic development and growth of manufacturing in countries such as India, Russia and, particularly, China are offering many new opportunities for Australian wool.
The growth in manufacturing, retail and consumer spending power, in several key countries, has emerged as a fundamental factor to shaping the future of the garment industry.
Rapid economic growth in China, India and Russia, which has led to the empowerment of their consumers, has gone hand-in-hand with the opening of their markets to the West. Each has a large, established manufacturing base and a huge, upwardly mobile emerging middle class.
AWI has already established strong business relationships in each country and is driving demand for Australian wool via collaborative work with these companies.
AWI is working directly with some of the most powerful players in the global garment industry today. From the development of entirely new end-products to the delivery of a functional and efficient supply chain, AWI is intrinsically involved in creating new business for Australian woolgrowers in these crucial developing markets.
China
China is Australia’s largest buyer of wool, accounting for more than 60% of the clip. Of this amount, half is used for garment production to be sold within China; the remainder is manufactured and then exported to other nations. As both a producer (for export) and as a consumer, China is Australia’s most vital market.
The three main market sectors for AWI in China are:
- Knitwear
- Menswear Woven
- Womenswear Woven
AWI is also rapidly moving forward into areas of sportswear and uniform/corporate production.
India
Driven by the emergence of a large middle class and changing consumer tastes, India has become a huge potential market for both manufacturing and retail.
India has a powerful garment production industry and, alongside Bangladesh, is the second-biggest supplier to the EU after China.
AWI’s focus is to deliver unique fabric to the Indian consumer under conditions that are not traditionally thought of as being suited to wool and also to supply manufacturers with innovative fabrics for export.
Russia
Driven by new consumer wealth and the economic restructuring of Russia and other Eastern European states, AWI has identified new opportunities for Australian woolgrowers working with companies in the region.
The Russian climate is particularly suited to the development and sale of Australian Merino products.