Mr Jake Koh, the Chief Executive Officer of The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel, and Ms Ma Yongmei, General Manager of China Textile Academy, shake hands after signing the MOU
HKRITA Joins Forces with CTA and ANTA to Revolutionize Sportswear and Drive Industry Innovation
Hong Kong – The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) has taken a significant step forward in advancing textile innovation by forging partnerships with China Textile Academy (CTA) and ANTA Sports Products Group Co Ltd (ANTA). The Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) aim to leverage the collective expertise of Hong Kong and mainland leaders to achieve groundbreaking advancements in technology and commercialization while enhancing competitiveness in the textile and sportswear sectors.
The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel JV to Promote Sportswear
CTA, a premier national research institute and industrial hub for the mainland’s textile industry, will collaborate with HKRITA to bridge the gap between research and large-scale application. Together, the organizations will accelerate the process of scaling laboratory technologies into pilot tests and intermediate trials, paving the way for swift technology transfer and commercialization. This collaboration is set to infuse fresh energy into technological development, enabling the seamless integration of research and industrial practices.
ANTA, one of China’s leading sportswear brands, will partner with HKRITA to focus on creating innovative, athlete-centric solutions. The research and developments under this MOU aim to address the specific needs of sports professionals while enhancing ANTA’s competitive edge in the sportswear market. This partnership also reinforces ANTA’s commitment to sustainable practices, further cementing its leadership in the industry.
Jake Koh, Chief Executive Officer of HKRITA, expressed his enthusiasm for these collaborations, emphasizing the significance of joint innovation in tackling the industry’s challenges. “R&D thrives on diverse ideas and collaboration. These partnerships bring together expertise from Hong Kong and the mainland to deliver cutting-edge solutions that improve not only our industry but also society as a whole. Our joint efforts will allow us to address pressing needs and propel the industry forward in a competitive landscape.”
General Manager of China Textile Academy, Ms. Ma Yongmei, underscored the transformative potential of the partnership with HKRITA. She highlighted CTA’s robust innovation chain, spanning material development, fiber preparation, and advanced equipment research. “By collaborating with HKRITA, we aim to inject new momentum into technological advancements while ensuring smooth technology transfer and fostering industrial growth,” she stated.
Mr Jake Koh (left), the Chief Executive Officer of The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel, and Mr Li Su, Vice President of ANTA GROUP, pose for a photo after signing the MOU
Li Su, Vice President of ANTA GROUP, echoed the enthusiasm for this strategic collaboration. “We are thrilled to work with HKRITA to create an innovation ecosystem that strengthens the sportswear value chain. This partnership will not only enhance our market presence but also deliver tailored solutions for athletes, driving both innovation and sustainability.”
The joint initiatives will concentrate on several key areas, including the development of new fiber materials, advanced functional products, smart manufacturing technologies, and sustainable regenerated textiles. These focus areas will accelerate the adoption of innovative performance textiles, setting new benchmarks for the industry in quality, functionality, and sustainability.
HKRITA’s mission to transform research into actionable solutions aligns with these collaborative efforts, solidifying its role as a catalyst for sustainable industry improvements. Established in 2006 and funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR Government, HKRITA continues to spearhead initiatives that drive competitiveness and societal benefits in the textile and apparel sectors.
These partnerships mark a pivotal moment in HKRITA’s journey to advance sustainable practices and performance-driven innovation. By fostering collaboration and leveraging expertise, HKRITA, CTA, and ANTA are shaping the future of the textile and sportswear industries.
