WHAT CUSTOMERS WANT

Chinese Mills Demand Quality In Their Cotton

China’s High Standards

I have been selling U.S. cotton to Chinese textile mills for many years, particularly SJV Acala from California and FiberMax cotton. I have noticed a lot of trends through the years. Competition in the global market has dramatically increased, and China’s mills have upgraded their facilities to keep up with this competition. In short, these mills have become more demanding and selective in their cotton purchases. The country’s high-end yarn spinners have set a lofty standard and expect high quality cotton to meet the customer’s expectations. When the parameters involve strength, micronaire, uniformity and foreign fiber content, it is obvious that Chinese mills have high standards and must maintain these high levels  of quality. They won’t compromise when it comes to quality.

Competition In The Market

Traditionally, SJV Acala and California cottons are very popular in China. In the past two years, FiberMax has become more and more popular due to its promotion efforts and high quality. However, according to the feedback I receive from mills, FiberMax will have to deal with price competitiveness in the immediate future. Chinese textile mills already have a high regard for this cotton’s reputation. The challenge will be how FiberMax competes against lower priced cottons. I think it can find its niche in a market that needs high quality cotton to meet consumers’ demands for quality apparel and finished goods.

Value Of Certified FiberMax

SJV Acala cotton has been enjoying a lot of orders from brand retailers. In other words, many buyers in the downstream channels are willing to pay for it. I have heard that Bayer CropScience has been promoting Certified FiberMax by combining downstream products with its brand tag.

This is a good idea and helps consumers understand the quality of the raw material. I think Chinese textile mills will accept the high price as long as the end consumers continue to demand high quality.