Riyadh, February 20, 2025 – In a significant move aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability within Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning fashion industry, the Fashion Commission has officially announced a strategic partnership with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). This collaboration represents a promising step toward shaping a vibrant, sustainable future for the Saudi fashion sector, aligning with the commission’s broader goals of supporting local talent, advancing design practices, and preserving the cultural heritage of the Kingdom.
The partnership takes a major leap forward through a landmark exhibition hosted at the Fashion Commission’s headquarters in Riyadh, running from February 18 to February 20, 2025. This exhibition provides a unique platform for showcasing the rich tapestry of Japanese textile craftsmanship, placing a special emphasis on sustainable production techniques. The event highlights the seamless integration of age-old Japanese techniques with cutting-edge design and eco-conscious production practices, which are gaining global attention in the fashion world.
A central component of this exhibition is a series of hands-on, interactive workshops designed to impart invaluable knowledge and skills to local Saudi designers and textile professionals. These workshops present an excellent opportunity for Saudi talent to engage directly with Japanese experts, exchanging insights into sustainable fashion innovation. By nurturing such collaborations, the Fashion Commission hopes to broaden professional networks, stimulate the local fashion ecosystem, and offer designers fresh perspectives on global market trends, all while preserving the Kingdom's unique cultural narratives.
The exhibition not only serves as a celebration of Japan’s storied textile tradition but also emphasizes the deep cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan. It underscores how the blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design innovations can inspire a new generation of Saudi designers to explore new creative possibilities. Through this dynamic interplay between heritage and contemporary fashion, the event offers a powerful example of how the fashion industry can evolve without losing touch with its cultural roots.
Burak Cakmak, Chief Executive Officer of the Fashion Commission, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that it is a direct reflection of the commission’s commitment to empowering local designers and strengthening the broader fashion ecosystem. He explained, “This collaboration marks a crucial step in advancing creative dialogue between Saudi and Japanese talents. It is an opportunity to push the boundaries of fashion while making sure we stay true to our shared cultural histories. Our mission is to drive the fashion industry in Saudi Arabia towards a more responsible, innovative, and sustainable future.”
Shiro Akiyama, Managing Director of JETRO’s Riyadh office, further emphasized the importance of this collaboration, underscoring its potential to enhance the long-standing trade relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan. He stated, “This partnership not only celebrates our shared cultural heritage but also opens up new avenues for cooperation between the two nations in the fields of fashion and textiles. We are excited to contribute to the development of Saudi Arabia’s fashion sector and to provide a platform for mutual exchange and growth.”
Through this groundbreaking partnership, both the Fashion Commission and JETRO are playing a pivotal role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s vision for a thriving, sustainable, and globally competitive fashion industry. The exhibition and workshops serve as a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering creativity, embracing sustainability, and building bridges between nations through the universal language of fashion.