How deep an impact has political change and financial turmoil had on the global apparel industry, particularly on trade policies and sourcing? Focus on the US and its suppliers.

Focus on the EU and its suppliers.Focus on the US and its suppliers.

The global industry is experiencing a paradigm shift. Rising wages, increasing energy and trasportation cost, relocation. How do these issues affect sourcing decisions?

How to cope with the falling consumer demand? Can the growing markets of China and India make up the shortfall?

Product recalls are costly. Is this simply a technical issue or is it political? The provision of correct specifications and training by the brands, and the competence of the suppliers to implement these accordingly are key issues. What are cost-effective ways to ensure product safety?

Can players in all sectors of the supply chain give up some of their interests in order to make the entire supply chain sustainable, given that the industry environment is becoming increasingly tough? What are the practical strategies and policies that could be commonly applied?

Technology beats the human mind … or is it the other way round? Discuss how to add value to and/or reduce the non-value-added steps involved in sourcing processes in order to reduce costs and increase margins.