The ambitious vision of turning Brazil into a regional production powerhouse for the fast-fashion giant Shein is facing a sobering reality check. What began as a bold $150 million commitment to partner with 2,000 local factories has hit a wall of operational friction, proving that replicating the ultra-fast "China model" in South America is far more complex than simply installing software. While the Singapore-headquartered retailer remains a dominant force in the domestic market—boasting a staggering Gross Merchandise Volume (GMV) of over R$ 15 billion in 2025—the transition from a digital marketplace to a localized industrial giant is proving to be an arduous uphill climb.
The global cotton market faced a wave of selling pressure on February 17, 2026, as ICE cotton futures tumbled to new lows amidst a broader retreat in the commodity sector. Lacking strong internal drivers, the natural fiber was caught in a cross-current of a strengthening US dollar and a massive sell-off in precious metals. The benchmark March contract shed 0.50 cent to settle at 62.67 cents per pound, while the May 2026 contract closed at 64.40 cents, marking a widespread decline that left no contract untouched.
The global textile and apparel community is converging on the Javits Center this week as Texworld NYC, Apparel Sourcing NYC, and Printsource return from January 20–22, 2026. This premier winter event unites international exhibitors and industry leaders for three days of high-impact discovery and connection. In an era where supply chain resilience is paramount, the 2026 showcase serves as a vital compass for navigating a market that increasingly demands both agility and accountability.
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