Tuesday, June 17, 2025
spot_img
spot_img
HomeConversationsBluesign Expands Footprint in South Asia, Driving Sustainable Innovation in Textiles

Bluesign Expands Footprint in South Asia, Driving Sustainable Innovation in Textiles

spot_img

Bluesign Technologies ag is a globally recognized leader in sustainable textile production, headquartered in Switzerland. Since its founding in 2000, Bluesign has pioneered a comprehensive system that ensures responsible and resource-efficient manufacturing processes across the textile supply chain. By partnering with brands, manufacturers, and chemical suppliers, Bluesign enables the creation of safer, more sustainable products through a rigorous focus on chemical management, environmental impact, and worker safety. Its holistic approach and verified data solutions help companies meet global compliance standards while driving meaningful progress toward a cleaner, more transparent textile industry.

1000086598

Recently Team Textile Focus scheduled an interview with Bluesign Technologies ag delegates and discussed about sustainable innovation in textiles as well footprint in South Asia. A brief conversation is given below for our respected readers.

Textile Focus: How would you define Bluesign’s recent activities?
Bluesign: In recent times, we’ve made significant progress. In Pakistan, we onboarded some of the most reputed companies—starting with Nishat Mills, our very first partner in the country. We’ve recently expanded to Bangladesh and begun collaborations with Fakir Apparels and Esquire Knit. They are currently undergoing the assessment process and will soon become Bluesign system partners. We’re also strengthening our collaboration with our parent company, SGS. Together, we’re creating a one-stop sustainability solution for manufacturing mills, with a focus on streamlined implementation and, most importantly, robust data collection to prepare for the upcoming Digital Product Passport (DPP).

Textile Focus: How do you view the Bangladesh market?
Bluesign: Bangladesh is currently one of the most advanced and high-demand markets, especially among global brands. There’s a wave of new investment and technological advancement. Entrepreneurs are not only producing high-quality products but are also focusing on sustainability. However, this evolution demands verified data—on energy use, water consumption, and CO₂ emissions. That data forms the foundation for DPP readiness. While negotiations, such as potential tariff changes with the US, create some uncertainty, we see growing alignment with European brands, especially due to new regulations like the Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).

1000086600
Figure: Katharina V Mayer – Head of CRM, South Asia & Turkey

Textile Focus: As you travel across many countries, how does the Bangladesh market compare with others?
Bluesign: Bangladesh has truly evolved. I started in this industry over 20 years ago, and back then, the focus was purely on pricing. Today, we see advanced technology, high-quality output, and a genuine push for sustainable practices. In contrast, some European markets have matured but are plateauing—Bangladesh is still on an upward trajectory. I oversee CRM for South Asia, Turkey, and Israel, while Marco looks after Europe and Africa. From a global perspective, Bangladesh is emerging as a key hub not just for production but also for sustainability transformation.

Textile Focus: How is Bluesign adding value to the sustainable textile industry?
Bluesign: Our mission is to create a world where textiles no longer harm people or the planet. We work closely with brands, manufacturers, and chemical suppliers to help them develop safer, more responsible products. Together with SGS, we offer an integrated solution—from chemical management to verified environmental data—to reduce impacts like water usage, energy consumption, and emissions. Our approach is holistic: we assess the entire supply chain to ensure verified improvements and meaningful change.

Textile Focus: Can you explain the Bluesign certification process?
Bluesign: Absolutely. If you’re a manufacturer in Bangladesh, you can contact our country manager Mehdi Hassan Rubel or any SGS representative. We guide you through every step—from data collection and chemical inventory review to on-site assessments. Think of us like a coach. Just like training for a marathon, preparing for DPP or full product certification takes time and guidance. Our job is to ensure you’re ready and aligned with global buyer expectations. With over 50 system brand partners—including Patagonia and Under Armour—your efforts also gain visibility through our global network.

1000086602
Figure: Marco Volpi – Head of CRM, Europe & Africa

Textile Focus: What are the benefits for brands and manufacturers working with Bluesign?
Bluesign: There are two main pathways:
Impact Service – For manufacturers focused on DPP readiness. It’s a faster process, designed to support verified data collection for compliance with EU regulations.
System Partnership – A comprehensive package that includes product certification and is ideal for brands requiring Bluesign-certified garments.
Both options increase manufacturers’ visibility and global connectivity through the Bluesign and SGS networks. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about standing out. Bluesign already covers carbon, water, and recycled content. For aspects like repairability and durability, SGS provides laboratory testing services. Our verified data ensures that metrics are not just numbers—they are trusted, actionable insights.

Textile Focus: Some manufacturers worry about high costs. Is sustainability always expensive?
Bluesign: That’s exactly why we introduced Impact Service—an affordable, practical starting point. We understand the cost concerns. But in this industry, data is the new currency, and verified data is what earns credibility. We’ve been pioneers in this field for 25 years. While many companies now offer traceability, very few can deliver high-quality, verified data. That’s where Bluesign and SGS stand apart.

Textile Focus: Any final message to the global textile and apparel industry?
Bluesign: Yes, Get ready. The years 2026 and 2027 are not far off, and DPP will soon be mandatory in Europe. Start now—with verified data, a reliable platform, and the right partners. With Bluesign and SGS, you’re not alone—we’re here to guide you.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
spot_img

Join Our Weekly Newsletter

- Advertisement - spot_img

Upcoming Events

 

Simillar News

Recent Random

US saw a notable increase in apparel imports, totaling $26.22 billion globally: OTEXA

According to OTEXA, In January and April 2025, the US experienced a notable increase in apparel imports, totalling $26.22 billion globally, representing a 10.65% rise...

Intertextile Apparel highlights industry commitment to sustainability and green innovation this autumn

 As the global textile and fashion industry intensifies its focus on eco-innovation, Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Autumn Edition will reaffirm its role as...

Why Are Garment Manufacturers Shifting to Egypt?

The Rise of a New Global Apparel Hub Egypt is rapidly emerging as a strategic center for global garment manufacturing. Driven by robust export performance,...