The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced a multi-year partnership with the Arab Fashion Council (AFC) in a bid to deliver a growth strategy for the fashion industry within the Arab World and to provide a gateway into the region for British and international brands without a foothold there currently.

Announced today (20 February), the partnership is the foundation of a long-term strategy to establish a sustainable fashion infrastructure in the Arab World, harnessing design, manufacturing, retail, commerce and education, positioning the region as a key strategic hub cementing the fashion industry as a key pillar for the creative economies in the region.

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“This important partnership will support the Arab Fashion Council in achieving its ambition to unite a sustainable fashion system for the Arab World,” says Jacob Abrian, founder and chief executive of The Arab Fashion Council. “With the counsel and expertise of the British Fashion Council, the AFC will nurture and promote the talent resource from the region and strategically reinforce the Arab World as an important economic hub for the international fashion industry.”

H.H. Princess Noura Bint Faisal Al Saud, who was appointed as honorary president of the AFC late last year, adds the alliance reflects the global interest in the group’s vision to transform the fashion and retail sector in Saudi Arabia into both a regional and global destination.

“This can only happen by stimulating local and regional industry, by encouraging trade exchange and global business in line with the Vision 2030, as our gateway to a future that reflects the cultural image of Saudi Arabia and its people.” 

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