1,038 fabrics competed on the same stage, 192 Keqiao enterprises participated, and fashion fabrics accounted for 66.7%—these are the numbers from the first 2026 'Keqiao Preferred' review. Held on April 24 in Shaoxing Keqiao, this regional brand selection is no longer just a product showcase but a comprehensive review of Keqiao's textile industry transformation from fabric supplier to branded, functional, and sustainable player.
Structural Changes in Three Tracks
Review data shows that while fashion fabrics remain dominant, the combined share of tech and green fabrics has risen to 33.3%. This ratio reflects Keqiao enterprises shaking off the 'commodity' label and moving into high-value-added segments. Expert feedback indicates clear divergence in material innovation: on one hand, cotton-silk blends and solution-dyed processes are widely adopted for better hand feel and eco-friendliness; on the other, down-jacket outdoor functional fabrics have become a hot category with intense competition.
From end-use applications, fabrics cover women's wear, men's wear, children's wear, sportswear, outdoor, and home textiles. However, experts particularly noted that functional fabrics are expanding from sports into fashion—a key industry trend, meaning Keqiao fabrics are no longer confined to specific niches but broadening their product boundaries.
The Logic of Regional Brand Upgrading
As a key regional public brand in Keqiao District, 'Keqiao Preferred' has evolved from a quality benchmark to an industry empowerment platform that integrates quality capacity, bridges supply-demand chains, and strengthens innovation leadership. The 2026 review standards place greater emphasis on product safety, mass production capability, functional verification, and eco-certification, effectively pushing enterprises to build more standardized technical files.
Notably, participating enterprises submitted much more complete information this year, with clearer differentiation in fabric composition and functional focus. Multiple brand-side experts commented that Keqiao fabrics are 'more aligned with brand R&D directions' and have significantly improved compliance. This means the cost of dialogue between regional brands and end-brands is decreasing, and supply-demand matching efficiency is rising.
Substantial Overseas Channels
Review results were announced on the official website on April 25, with the second round of applications opening immediately and expected to be evaluated in July. But more significant than the review itself is the fact that selected products will gain exposure at a series of international events: China International Trade Fair for Textiles and Accessories (Autumn/Winter), Première Vision Paris, Performance Days in Munich, and APTEXPO 2026.
From the domestic recognition of 'Good Fabrics, Made in Keqiao' to standing on global stages like PV, the regional brand's overseas path is accelerating. For Keqiao enterprises, this is not just booth exposure but a substantive channel into international brand procurement lists. Review committee chair Li Bo noted that the project will continue to align with brand demand, guide enterprises to focus on innovation tracks, and push the traditional fabric production area to upgrade into a brand-recognized high-end supply base.