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IAF Urges Fair Purchasing And Collaboration Amid Global Supply Chain Disruptions

• By  Textile Excellence
• March 17, 2026

International Apparel Federation (IAF) has called for stronger collaboration and responsible purchasing practices as fresh geopolitical tensions disrupt global textile and apparel supply chains.

The federation highlighted that escalating hostilities in the Gulf region and disruptions around key energy routes such as the Strait of Hormuz are pushing input costs higher and creating supply shortages. Rising energy prices are expected to impact manufacturing costs across major sourcing hubs in Asia.

IAF warned that shifting financial pressure onto manufacturers could weaken long term industry resilience. The organisation stressed that balanced sourcing strategies and fair risk sharing are critical to sustain production ecosystems.

Global apparel trade is valued at over US$ 1.7 trillion, making supply chain stability a strategic priority. Industry initiatives such as the Sustainable Terms of Trade Initiative and the Apparel and Textile Transformation Initiative aim to strengthen collaboration and accelerate transition towards renewable energy.

IAF President, Stefano Festa Marzotto warned that shifting financial pressure onto manufacturers could weaken long term industry resilience. The organisation stressed that balanced sourcing strategies and fair risk sharing are critical to sustain production ecosystems.