|
Cotton prices, among other commodities have been taking centre stage as unprecedented market conditions prevail.
According to those in the cotton and textile industries, nothing is normal about this year. In fact, everything has gone topsy-turvy along the supply chain. Cotton prices, among other commodities have been taking centre stage as unprecedented market conditions prevail. The financial crisis notwithstanding, a number of domestic Chinese and global factors have contributed to the making of a perfect storm for the textile industry. With the US and other countries' cotton harvests on-going, it is hoped that prompt shipments will ease the situation for spinners, fabric and garment manufacturers. Meanwhile, we may see shifts in the supply chain as manufacturers adapt to a new pattern of sourcing.
What happened to cause the current situation of low supply and high prices? What may be in store? Ms. Karin Malmstrom shares some insights from the frontline.
 Ms. Karin Malmstrom has worked for multi-national corporations in the automotive, steel and travel industries, gaining experience in metals and minerals trading, technology transfer, education, journalism and communications. From 1994 to 2003 she was in charge of Corporate Communications, China and Northeast Asia, for Mercedes-Benz/Daimler-Benz/DaimlerChrysler, before founding Malmstrom Associates Orient, a successful strategic marketing consultancy which undertook several major re-branding projects, including one for the city of Harbin. In 2006 she was appointed Director, Cotton Council International (CCI) for China and Hong Kong, directing CCI’s trade servicing programs, supply chain marketing activities, consumer promotions and involvement in government affairs throughout the region, as well as managing CCI’s Hong Kong and Shanghai offices, and its representative office in Beijing.
|
