At the Asian Dialogue Conference 2025 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Star Network and AFTEX have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing the apparel sector in Asia. The MoU was signed by Fazlee Shamim Ehsan, a founder board member of Star Network, and Albert Tan, chairman of AFTEX.
The collaboration focuses on improving cooperation and promoting sustainable practices among key players in the textile and apparel industry. It seeks to address significant issues such as unfair purchasing conditions, decarbonisation, and the implementation of sustainable trade initiatives.
Star Network represents member countries in the Sustainable Textiles of the Asian Region, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Vietnam. AFTEX is a federation that supports the textile and apparel industry within ASEAN countries.
The partnership is expected to have a considerable economic impact by streamlining operations and adopting sustainable practices, potentially reducing costs related to energy and waste management for member countries.
International collaborations like this are seen as essential for addressing challenges such as environmental sustainability and fair trade practices in the apparel industry. Present at the signing were Wasim Zakaria from Posh Garments Ltd, several trade union leaders including Nazma Akter from the Awaz Foundation, AFTEX members, and representatives from GIZ.
