Top stories this week on just-style include a look at the first feedback from a panel of executives consulted by just-style on the challenges and opportunities the apparel industry faces in 2018, plans by the Myanmar Government to increase the country’s minimum wage, and a new green supply chain map that links leading multinational corporations to their suppliers’ environmental performance.

Outlook 2018 – Apparel industry challenges and opportunities

2018 is set to be a year in which disruptive trends that have been on the horizon start to become the norm for the apparel industry and its supply chain, according to first feedback from a panel of executives consulted by just-style. This includes more orders in smaller quantities and shorter lead times, the pressures of e-commerce and fast fashion, digitalisation of the value chain, slow sales and rising costs. But facing up to these challenges also presents opportunities for retailers, brands and their suppliers to rethink their business models and find new ways to become relevant.

Myanmar proposes minimum wage increase of 33%

The Myanmar Government has set out plans to increase the country’s minimum wage rate by 33% across all regions – a move the garment sector suggests could put pressure on its business owners.

Chinese clothing exporters exploiting EU tax loopholes

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The European Union (EU) financial watchdog has highlighted concerns about how Chinese clothing and footwear exporters may be exploiting loopholes in EU customs and VAT controls to evade paying proper amounts of these taxes.?

Green supply chain map links China factories to brands

Six leading apparel brands have stepped forward to be featured on a new online map that claims to be the only tool in the world to openly link leading multinational corporations to their suppliers’ environmental performance.

M&S sells Hong Kong and Macau retail business

UK retailer Marks & Spencer has confirmed the sale and franchise of its retail business in Hong Kong and Macau to its long-established franchise partner Al-Futtaim.

Just Style Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Style Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact

Excellence in Action
From bio-based durable water repellents to 90–95% wastewater recovery, Archroma’s dual win in the 2025 Just Style Excellence Awards highlights its sustainability-first approach. Find out how PHOBOTEX® NTR-50 and the Mahachai ZLD project are helping apparel and textile players meet tightening global regulations.

Discover the Impact