1,038 fabrics competed side by side, with fashion fabrics accounting for over two-thirds and tech and green fabrics combined for one-third. This was the scorecard of the first phase of the 2026 'Keqiao Premium' evaluation held on April 24 in Shaoxing Keqiao. The event was not just a product screening but a concentrated projection of Keqiao's textile industry upgrade direction.
Evaluation Data Reflects Industry Focus
By category, fashion fabrics led with a 66.7% share, while tech and green fabrics together accounted for 33.3%. A total of 192 local Keqiao enterprises participated, covering the entire chain from weaving, dyeing, home textiles to wall coverings and curtains. Evaluators noted a significant improvement in overall fabric quality compared to last year, with higher enthusiasm and greater product diversity.
Notably, functional fabrics are expanding from traditional sportswear and outdoor scenarios into fashion. Multiple evaluators mentioned that down jacket outdoor functional fabrics became a hot category, and multi-component blending technology was widely used to enhance fabric quality and broaden application scenarios. This indicates Keqiao companies are no longer satisfied with a single functional label but are seeking a balance between function and aesthetics.
Three Track Convergence Trend is Evident
The evaluation ran in parallel across three tracks: fashion, tech, and green. Fashion fabrics emphasized original colors, patterns, and differentiated textures, with some incorporating intangible cultural heritage techniques and patented designs; tech fabrics focused on material and process innovation, many backed by technology patents; green fabrics targeted international eco-standards like OEKO-TEX Standard 100, FSC, and GRS, using eco-friendly raw materials and low-carbon processes.
What truly impressed the judges was the blurring of boundaries between these tracks. For example, dope dyeing technology was widely adopted, balancing environmental protection and fashion; cotton-silk blends enhanced hand feel while improving cost performance; plain-colored knitted fabrics offered multiple functions beyond traditional Chinese elements. This trend shows Keqiao enterprises are shifting from single selling points to comprehensive value competition.
Brand-Side Demand Drives Supplier Upgrade
Feedback from brand representatives at the evaluation was direct and sharp. Brand sourcing managers pointed out that fabrics combining function and fashion with high cost performance were more aligned with their needs, and they suggested Keqiao firms focus on differentiated R&D in functional apparel sub-sectors. This means downstream brands are no longer satisfied with 'buy what is available' but require suppliers to customize based on end-use scenarios.
Another positive signal is the strengthening of compliance awareness. Many companies provided complete test reports with functional indicators and measured data, which was rare in the past. Eco-friendly fabrics showed high design and craftsmanship levels in natural fiber applications, with pure wool fabrics being soft and pure cotton fabrics having natural wrinkle textures, significantly improved in quality.
From Regional Brand to Global Market Springboard
This year, the 'Keqiao Premium' project revolves around four directions: evaluation standard optimization, product innovation upgrade, global market expansion, and terminal value conversion. Selected products can participate in three precise brand matching events and will be showcased at top domestic and international exhibitions including the China International Textile Fabrics & Accessories (Autumn & Winter) Expo, Première Vision Paris, Performance Days Munich, and APTEXPO 2026.
For small and medium-sized Keqiao fabric enterprises, this effectively opens a direct link from local factories to international buyers. Especially for high-barrier events like PV and Performance Days, being selected means product quality has gained international recognition.