The global woolen textile industry has faced a steady decline due to China's recent economic slowdown. However, the textile industry in Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu province is resisting the trend by increasing its efficiency and innovation and becoming more environmentally friendly.

Located along the Yangtze River, Zhangjiagang's Free Bonded Area is home to the country's largest base for wool processing and storage. More than 150 wool textile processing companies have been gathered in the city; the companies have an annual processing capability accounting for 15 percent of the world's annual wool textile output. The wool textile products produced in Zhangjiagang have been exported to over 50 countries and regions.

The textile industry is considered to be a pillar of Zhangjiagang's economy. A number of local companies are making progress amid a gloomy global market by developing core competitiveness in research and development, design, production, management and marketing.

Zhangjiagang Yuxin Wool Industry Co, for example, has invested 85 million yuan ($13.9 million) on a wool scouring and processing project, which aims to scour wool with recycled waste water to promote environmental protection and increase profits.

By stressing innovation in science and technology, Jiangsu Lugang Science & Technology Co, the city's leading wool textile producer, has developed a number of quality products which have made an appearance at many international textile expos. The company has established cooperation with well-known clothes retailers such as ZARA, GAP and H＆M.

The 84th IWTO Congress was held in Zhangjiagang on May 18, attracting more than 400 domestic and international textile representatives to attend. The congress is an international event for the wool textile industry and is set to bring more opportunities to the development of Zhangjiagang's wool textile industry.

Edited by Jacob Hooson