INSIGHTS Prices for US imports increased by 0.1 per cent for the second consecutive month in November and October this year after declining by 0.4 per cent in September and by 0.3 per cent in August. US export prices remained unchanged in November following a 1-per cent rise the previous month, and declining by 0.6 per cent in September and by 0.7 per cent in August. Prices for US imports increased by 0.1 per cent for the second consecutive month in November and October this year after declin

INSIGHTS Fitch Ratings revised its global container shipping outlook to 'stable' from 'deteriorating', citing stability in tankers and bulk despite container shipping challenges. Risks include geopolitical conflicts, trade policy shifts post-2024 US elections, and 2025 oversupply. Emissions regulations add long-term cost pressures, requiring asset investments. Fitch Ratings has revised its outlook for global container shipping from ‘deteriorating’ to ‘stable’, anticipa

INSIGHTS Universal Fibers invests in new spinning capacity for Nylon 6,6 yarns to support customers after Ascend exits the BCF fibre market. Focused on innovation, sustainability, and quality, the company expands its product lineup to meet evolving demands. CEO Marc Ammen highlights their commitment to customer satisfaction, growth, and providing reliable, high-performing solutions. As the fiber market continues to evolve, Universal Fibers, a leader in innovative fiber solutions, continues i

INSIGHTS The seasonally-adjusted US consumer price index for all urban consumers rose by 0.3 per cent month on month (MoM) in November after rising by 0.2 per cent in each of the previous four months. The pre-seasonal adjustment all items index rose by 2.7 per cent over the last 12 months. The energy index rose by 0.2 per cent MoM after being unchanged in October. The apparel index also rose in November. The US consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPI-U) increased by 0.3 per cent mon

INSIGHTS Trade tensions and likely US tariff hikes may hit global trade, exacerbating the growth challenges faced by European and Middle East seaports, Fitch Ratings said. A slow recovery in demand for consumer goods is likely to continue in Europe in 2025, supporting the seaport sector, it noted. The Middle East and eastern Mediterranean face port overcapacity risks as construction outpaces demand growth. Growing trade tensions and likely tariff increases by the incoming US administration ma

INSIGHTS Vietnam's textile exports are set to reach $44 billion in 2024. VIATT 2025, from Feb 26–28 at SECC, will feature 15,000 sqm of exhibitions, emphasising sustainability and innovation. Key pavilions include exhibitors from Europe and Asia, showcasing fabrics, textiles, and advanced tech. Organised by Messe Frankfurt and VIETRADE, VIATT is vital for ASEAN textile sourcing. Despite global challenges, Vietnam's textile industry is poised for robust growth. This year, the country&rsq

INSIGHTS Real US GDP increased at an annual rate of 3.1 per cent in Q3 2024, according to the third official estimate. In Q2 2024, real GDP increased by 3 per cent. The increase in real GDP primarily reflected increases in consumer spending, exports, non-residential fixed investment and federal government spending. Imports increased as well. Real gross domestic income rose by 2.1 per cent in the quarter. Real US gross domestic product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 3.1 per cent in the t

INSIGHTS ICE cotton prices continued their downward trend for the fourth consecutive session, influenced by declining soybean futures and a stronger dollar. The March 2025 contract settled at 68.08 cents per pound, slightly above its low. The broader cotton market reflected losses across various contracts, with overall weak demand exacerbated by a rising dollar and lower soybean prices. ICE cotton continued its declining trend for the fourth consecutive trading session yesterday. A bearish to

INSIGHTS Chinese company Kelida invests $30 million in a textiles project with Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE). It will export 90 per cent of its textiles. SCZONE signed agreements for textile and food projects in Qantara West Zone, spanning 137,000 square metre and creating 1,450 jobs. SCZONE's first phase now totals $309 million investments, 751,000 square metre, and 14,200 jobs. Kelida, a Chinese manufacturer of fabrics and home textiles, has agreed on a project with Suez Canal Economic

INSIGHTS ICE cotton prices have seen a downward trend due to lower crude oil prices and increased production forecasts, although a weakening dollar has somewhat cushioned the decline. With the US cotton export sales report pending, market sentiments remain hopeful, bolstered by strong upland cotton sales. Meanwhile, ICAC has revised its global cotton production and inventory forecasts upward for 2024-25. ICE cotton continued to trend lower due to cheaper crude oil and higher production and in