O o d h e a d p u b L i s h I n g L i m I t e d

5.1
Introduction
The single most important development that has influenced technology trends
in the textile sector is the globalisation of textile trade. Globalisation, led by
the phase-out of the Multi-Fibre Arrangement (MFA), the global movements
towards the liberalisation of trade, and the entry of China into the World
Trade Organization (WTO), has completely changed the way textile companies
do business. The traditional producers are hence facing over-capacity in
domestic production as well as low-priced imports of commodity products
from low-cost countries. Their technology focus is thus shifting towards
production of high value added product lines not presently threatened by
imports. Low-cost countries on the other hand are moving towards increasing
productivity so as to offset the price pressures and become more competitive
in view of the emphasis on right first-time, right-on-time, right every-time
deliveries and higher levels of service being demanded by large retailers.
Furthermore, Asia has emerged as a new consumer base of the world
owing to its high population density and growth rate. Sixty per cent of all
Australian wool is now processed in China. Growth in information technology
has introduced this large population to changing fashion and lifestyle trends,
thereby fuelling a retail boom and consumer demand for wider variety of
colours, designs, styles, aesthetics, improved handle, comfort and easy-care
garments. Changing lifestyles have driven the growth in casual wear,
© 2009 Woodhead Publishing Limited

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Advances in wool weaving and knitting
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sportswear, footwear and technical textiles. This in turn has led to growth in
use of a wide variety of new fabrics.
In weaving and knitting, the existing generation of technology is proving
more than sufficient for most manufacturers’ needs of commodity products.
Since most machinery manufacturers are based in developed countries and
buyers of technology are probably now in the low-cost countries, there has been
a spate of mergers and acquisitions among European textile machinery makers
and alliances/joint ventures with Asian machinery makers. It is also important
to note that machines are no longer made specifically for wool. Furthermore,
there has been an enhanced focus on environment protection, water/energy
saving, versatility and flexibility in the new generation of machines.