At the "Intertextile Shanghai Apparel & Fabrics - Fall 2014," Japan exhibited primarily at the "Japan Pavilion 2014," showcasing textile trends from Japan. Many buyers flocked to the venue every day in search of high-value-added products unique to Japan.

Toyobo, participating for the 12th time, primarily supplied acrylic materials for innerwear in China. In response to growing demand for sportswear and homewear, the company has expanded its overseas production operations in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Taiwan. They introduced the world's first moisture-absorbing, heat-generating fiber and a disinfecting fiber that is gradually gaining attention. "The Japan zone attracts people seeking unique, high-quality materials, even if they are expensive. To compete globally, we want to express the unique Japanese and Toyobo style. Chinese youth fashion consciousness is changing, and we expect they will increasingly pay attention to invisible styles, such as innerwear," said a representative.

Toray displayed the latest materials, including its flagship product, Ecsaine, and knitwear. Materials used by renowned brands participating in the Paris Collection also attracted attention. "In the past, many buyers would just ask the price and leave, but now we have to negotiate. High functionality and aesthetic appeal have become more prevalent. There is still room for growth in this field," said a representative from Moririn. "Japanese materials are expensive, but they are popular because they offer something unique. Our overseas operations are also going well, and in our third year in Vietnam, we achieved profitability in our second year. This year, we opened a base in Bangkok and are now working on material development. We also resumed operations in Indonesia this year." This fall, Saiei Orimono won both the "Prize for Best Color Application" and the "Putting Prize" at the China International Fabrics Design Competition, one of the most prestigious awards in the Chinese textile market. Many people at our booth were quick to pick up our delicate, thin silk textiles, and the company commented, "We are now in a position where even more expensive materials are accepted." "The Chinese market as a whole is sluggish, but we sense a growing desire for authenticity. Consumers seem to be becoming more discerning," said a representative from Asahi Kasei. Bemberg continues to be popular, particularly in Europe and the United States, and is being adopted by various brands in China.

Chori also has high hopes for the Chinese market, saying, "We've received more inquiries than last year, and we're running out of space for business meetings. We'll also exhibit at the Spring Exhibition and try various creative ways to display our products."

Takisada Nagoya said, "Menswear-like and sporty styles are on trend, and double jacquard and corrugated knitwear are doing well. A few years ago, trends in China and Japan were different, but now they're pretty much the same."

This was Seiren's first time exhibiting. The company decided to participate as part of its globalization efforts, and this was also its first time exhibiting at a Chinese trade fair. The response was better than expected, with a steady stream of customers, and it got off to a great start. The company also opened its Shanghai office this fall.

Mitsubishi Fashion also exhibited for the first time, showcasing its proprietary materials. High-value-added products based on the themes of functional and natural materials were on display. Approximately 30% of the buyers were from Europe and the United States. Shimada Shoji, which deals in clothing materials, proposed designs that incorporate sporty elements for everyday use, incorporating pressure-bonded zippers and reflective materials. At the booth, a system was introduced whereby detailed descriptions of each product could be viewed by scanning the barcodes on the side of the exhibits with a smartphone. Shimada Shoji is also considering an online sample ordering system in the future.