Kyrgyz clothing exporters eye European market

Kyrgyzstan is still largely unknown among European garment sourcers. Last September the Bishkek Garment Industry, a group of 15 Kyrgyz apparel firms, exhibited at the Apparel Sourcing Paris exposition for the first time and again at the event in February.

Several Kyrgyz clothing producers have vast experience with exports to Russia, Kazakhstan and other CIS countries, which together absorb nearly 95% of total exports.

With Russian demand weakening, these Kyrgyz exporters are now eyeing Europe. Their efforts are being supported and co-ordinated through a USAID Business Growth Initiative project.

At last month’s Apparel Sourcing Paris exhibition representatives of US-based consulting firm Deloitte explained why the Kyrgyz garment industry, represented by Bishkek Garment Industry (600 workers, maximum production capacity of 1m pcs/month) is a promising newcomer in the European market.

For the full story, see the March 2018 edition of Textiles Eastern Europe. Not a subscriber? Sign up HERE