HKRITA Expands Collaboration with the Mainland and International Partners to Drive Textile Innovation

In response to the global rise in environmental consciousness and the market demand for sustainable technologies, The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) is actively expanding its collaborations and exchanges with the mainland and international partners to promote technological innovation and application.

Collaborations with Academic and Research Institutions in the Mainland

HKRITA has partnered with leading academic and research institutions in the mainland to accelerate the innovation and application of technologies. In February and March 2025, HKRITA signed Memoranda of Understanding with China Textile Academy (CTA) and Donghua University. CTA, as a comprehensive national research institute with a complete technology chain, is working with HKRITA to expedite the transition of laboratory technologies to intermediate trials, thereby accelerating technology transfer and commercialisation. Donghua University, renowned for its contributions to textile education and research, focuses on research topics such as textile material recycling and functional fibres. These collaborations aim to advance scientific research and support the “dual carbon” targets.

Mr Jake Koh, CEO of HKRTIA, and Ms Ma Yongmei, General Manager of China Textile Academy, shake hands after signing the MOU

Witnessed by Ms Teresa Yang, Chairman of HKRITA (first left), and Prof Xiang Yanxun, President of Donghua University (first right), Mr Jake Koh, CEO of HKRITA (second left) and Prof Lu Weibing, Vice President of Donghua University (second right), sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen research collaboration

 

Industry Partnerships to Accelerate Commercialisation

Facilitating technologies into the market is a key objective for HKRITA. HKRITA has partnered with industry leaders in the mainland, including ANTA Sports Products Group Co Ltd (ANTA) and the Pudong-Hong Kong Institute for Technology Transfer and Innovation Limited, along with the Pudong New Force Incubator. The agreement with ANTA in February focuses on leveraging Anta’s market experience and HKRITA’s innovation strength to enhance sportswear quality and optimise the supply chain. The collaboration with the Pudong institutions in March aims to develop low-carbon and bio-renewable materials, accelerating the industry’s comprehensive upgrades and technology commercialisation.

Mr Jake Koh (left), CEO of HKRITA, and Mr Li Su, Vice President of ANTA GROUP, pose for a photo after signing the MoU

Witnessed by Ms Teresa Yang, Chairman of HKRITA (fourth left, back row), Mr Yang Ming, Chairman of Shanghai Pudong Construction Co Limited (fourth right, back row) and the representatives of the organisations, (from left, front row) Ms Li Chenfei, Strategic Director of Pudong New Force Incubator, Mr Jake Koh, CEO of HKRITA, and Mr Chan Yi Ngok, Representative of Pudong-Hong Kong Institute for Technology Transfer and Innovation Limited, sign a Letter of Intent on a Co-operation Framework

 

Promoting Environmental Technologies at International Exhibitions

HKRITA also promotes its research projects overseas, attracting industry partners and fostering collaboration. In February, Dr Erika Ngan, Project Manager of HKRITA, introduced the HKRITA’s sustainable development technologies, such as microplastic management and closed-loop textile production, at the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textiles Technologies (VIATT). Dr Ngan also engaged in discussions with international experts on “Shaping a Sustainable Textile Future through Innovation.”

In March, Ms Katherine Chan, Director (Business Development) of HKRITA, attended the Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics. She participated in a panel discussion titled “Shaping the Future of Sustainability through Innovation—Overcoming Obstacles, Fostering Cooperation, and Driving Impact,” exploring how research and innovation can drive sustainable development and introducing HKRITA’s advancements in textile recycling technology. Both events are available for review on the HKRITA Podcast.

Looking forward, HKRITA will continue to seize opportunities to connect with the industry and research partners globally, leading textile technology innovation and promoting industry sustainability.

Dr Erika Ngan, Project Manager of HKRITA, engages in deep discussions on sustainability with international experts at the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technologies

Ms Katherine Chan, Director (Business Development) of HKRITA, presents eco-friendly textile technologies at the Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics