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How can brands preserve their identity in an era of globalization? What strategic steps can BRICS+ countries take to strengthen their fashion sectors? And how effectively does the government support local designers? These questions were discussed at the opening plenary session, 'Fashion 360°: Development of related industries', which took place at the BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow's Zaryadye Park on August 28. This three-day event brought together fashion leaders from around the world, including industry executives, manufacturers, analysts, bloggers, educators and emerging designers from over 65 countries.

The summit emphasised the remarkable adaptability of Russian textile factories in response to contemporary market demands. Domestic companies are increasingly embracing innovative solutions for producing nonwoven fabrics, synthetics and specialised membranes. Several ambitious new projects in the production of raw materials for the light industry are currently in development, backed by government support to help these ventures expand into international markets.

Investment in Russian textile retail nearly quintupled in 2024, according to AnalyticResearchGroup data showing total revenue from monitored retailers exceeded 57 billion rubles. The most dynamic growth has occurred in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Moscow region.

Russia's overall fashion market reached over 4 trillion rubles last year, according to figures shared during the 'Fashion 360°: Development of related industries' session, according to Ozon data.

Research by consulting firm NEO reveals that over 76% of Russians now trust local fashion labels – a confidence increasingly visible in the country's shopping centers. Brands featured at Moscow Fashion Week are expanding beyond online marketplaces to establish physical retail presences.

The BRICS+ nations represented at the Moscow summit are fundamentally reshaping the global dynamics of the industry. China accounts for around 57% of global textile production, while India contributes 17% and Bangladesh 6%. The BRICS countries have mastered the art of building robust economies through strong local brands. Brazil and South Africa leverage fashion as a form of soft power, while manufacturing clusters in India and China contribute significantly to GDP—a trend highlighted by Yan Jian, Chairman of the China Fashion Association.

Minister of Industry and Trade, Anton Alikhanov, provided insight into the domestic market's trajectory: "Over the past five years, the fashion goods market has more than doubled, now valued at around 500 billion rubles. That translates into about one billion individual items. Experts forecast steady annual growth of 5% to 7% through 2036."

Anton Alikhanov outlined the government's comprehensive support measures, which include uniting regional industry leaders, establishing fashion hubs and organising sector-wide events. Russia's light industry currently operates across 11 active clusters with significant export potential, particularly within the BRICS markets. The minister emphasised the importance of cultivating long-term partnerships with key markets such as China and India.

Representatives of BRICS countries revealed a growing focus on high-tech textiles designed for extended lifespans. Russian researchers are advancing the development of "smart fabrics," including thermochromic and self-cleaning textiles. For instance, those developed at St.Petersburg State University of Industrial Technologies and Design. Or a Smart Textile Lab that operates at Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University.

Natalia Popova, the First Deputy CEO of Innopraktika, captured the technological evolution of the industry: "Fashion is increasingly becoming a high-tech field, incorporating smart fabrics, biocompatible materials, IT solutions, and big data. These innovations not only make clothing stylish and functional, but are also linked to health, safety and sustainability. Russian developments hold enormous potential for the global market, particularly in BRICS countries, where these technologies have a real chance of scaling up and succeeding commercially."

In general, the participants of the BRICS+ Fashion Summit confirmed the growing trend towards sustainable development in the industry. According to Cem Altan, President of the International Apparel Federation, Turkey has emerged as a significant advocate for green textile technologies.

Yanп Jian, Executive Chairman of the China Fashion Association, said that "It's an honor to be in Moscow for the third time at the BRICS+ Fashion Summit. Through this forum, I've made many new friends and have seen growing interest from fashion professionals worldwide. The summit has become an important platform for dialogue and international collaboration. I wish it continued growth and success."

McKinsey & Company research suggests that green technologies could represent up to 40% of the textile industry by 2030. Particularly promising areas include smart textiles and fabrics with integrated electronic components – fields that participants of the session agreed could foster collaborative projects among BRICS+ countries.

From August 27 to 30, the BRICS+ Fashion Summit will bring together representatives from over 65 countries, including not only BRICS members such as China, India, the UAE, and Egypt, but also Spain, Italy, the United States, Malaysia, and nations from Africa and Latin America. With over 200 delegates in attendance, the event showcases the fashion industry's dedication to fostering global partnerships and promoting shared growth.