The Global Fashion Summit, previously held exclusively in Copenhagen, made a landmark appearance in China for the very first time, showcasing its adaptability to diverse markets. Credit: Global Fashion Agenda (GFA).
This event, meticulously organised by the Global Fashion Agenda (GFA) in collaboration with Chinamind NEXT, successfully assembled influential figures from across the local and international fashion landscape for an elegant evening of insightful discussions and networking opportunities at the renowned St. Regis Shanghai Jingan hotel.
The Shanghai Gala’s overarching theme, ‘Unlocking the Next Level’, was thoughtfully crafted from key insights derived from the Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition, which took place in May.
By staging the summit in vibrant Shanghai—a metropolis celebrated for its harmonious blend of rich tradition and cutting-edge innovation—the event sought to promote dialogue and foster international cooperation to drive much-needed sustainable practices within the ever-evolving fashion sector on a global scale.
The evening featured compelling presentations from thought leaders representing prestigious companies such as H&M Group, COACH, Chinamind NEXT, Piaget China, Décor Global, Target, Balian Group, and the Erdos Cashmere Group, ensuring a diverse array of perspectives and expertise contributed to the conversations.
Discussions delved into vital topics such as ‘Circularity at Scale’, ‘Shaping Sustainable Retail’, and ‘Ambition to Action’. They focused on actionable strategies to advance sustainability within the intricate fashion supply chain and instigate long-term positive change.
GFA chief executive officer Federica Marchionni stated: “The inaugural edition of the Global Fashion Summit in China marked an evening of profound thought leadership, demonstrating the opportunity for the industry to convert ambitious goals into meaningful actions that create ripple effects felt across communities and ecosystems worldwide.”
“In this new era, we are forging critical dialogues and alliances at the Summit, which we plan to build upon during our next gathering in Copenhagen next year.”
Chinamind NEXT CEP Lynn Fu elaborated: “It has sparked profound discussions among participants on the theme of Unlocking the Next Level. As the world’s largest consumer of apparel and textiles, China has a substantial impact on driving sustainable industry trends and cultivating consumers’ green preferences. When Chinese fashion companies and international brands collaborate more passionately on their sustainable visions, profound and enduring benefits for the industry will be delivered.”
During this pivotal event, GFA also released The GFA Monitor 2024, a comprehensive report crafted to guide industry leaders towards achieving a net positive fashion industry.
Launched ahead of COP29, slated to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan from 11 to 22 November 2024, this year’s GFA report offers a streamlined update on significant advancements, ongoing challenges, and promising opportunities within the sector.
Additionally, GFA unveiled that the theme for the 2025 edition would be “Barriers and Bridges,” effectively setting the stage for next year’s summit and fostering discussions centered around overcoming obstacles and building crucial connections in the relentless pursuit of sustainability.
**Interview with Maria Lu, Director of Sustainability at Chinamind NEXT, on the Global Fashion Summit in Shanghai**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Maria. The Global Fashion Summit has made its debut in China this year. Can you tell us what this means for the fashion industry in China and globally?
**Maria Lu:** Thank you for having me! The debut of the Global Fashion Summit in China marks a significant step in our journey towards sustainability in the fashion industry. It demonstrates our openness to different markets and highlights China’s vital role in global fashion. By bringing influential figures together, we can foster discussions that inspire actions toward sustainable practices tailored to local contexts.
**Editor:** The theme of this year’s event was “Unlocking the Next Level.” What key insights or strategies were shared during the discussions?
**Maria Lu:** The theme perfectly encapsulates our aim to elevate sustainability efforts. During the gala, we discussed critical topics like ’Circularity at Scale’ and ‘Shaping Sustainable Retail.’ One notable takeaway was the importance of collaboration across brands and stakeholders to implement circular practices in our supply chains. It’s about turning ambitions into concrete actions that make a measurable difference.
**Editor:** Some prestigious companies were represented at the event, such as H&M Group and COACH. How can collaboration among diverse brands bolster sustainability efforts?
**Maria Lu:** Collaboration is key. When brands share their successes and challenges, it opens pathways for collective learning and innovation. Each company brings unique expertise, and by working together, we can create scalable solutions that benefit the entire supply chain. Leaders from diverse backgrounds can push the needle further and faster than we could do alone.
**Editor:** The summit took place at the St. Regis Shanghai Jingan, an iconic venue. How does the setting contribute to the event’s success?
**Maria Lu:** The St. Regis offers a sophisticated environment that reflects the blend of tradition and modernity in Shanghai. Its ambiance fosters meaningful conversations and networking opportunities. The setting itself reminds participants of the rich heritage we are building upon as we innovate for a sustainable future.
**Editor:** Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the outcomes of this summit moving forward?
**Maria Lu:** I hope that this summit serves as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue and partnerships that extend beyond the event. Sustained commitment to action is essential for driving positive change. By maintaining momentum, we can see real advancements in sustainable practices that reshape the fashion industry for the better, both locally and globally.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Maria. We look forward to seeing the impact of this pivotal event unfold.
**Maria Lu:** Thank you! I’m excited to see the changes we can achieve together.