The latest fashion statement from Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo could soon be manufactured in the Philippines, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
DTI Secretary Cristina Roque presented the country’s potential to host a factory of the popular brand in a meeting with officials of Fast Retailing Co., the operator of Uniqlo, in Tokyo, Japan.
“We are currently revitalizing our textile and fashion design industry and would be very interested in exploring the possibility of being a candidate for your partner factory model program,” the DTI quoted Roque as saying to Fast Retailing officials.
The Trade Secretary said including the Philippines in the program would be beneficial to both parties, as the country’s supply chain and Uniqlo’s expertise not only reduces shipping time and lower cost but also improves sustainability by minimizing carbon footprint.
She added that this initiative has been an enormous success in countries that are home to the brand’s partner factories.
Based on Fast Retailing’s website, Uniqlo outsources production of the majority of its products to factories in China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and India.
“Uniqlo continues to ensure responsible procurement and high-quality products by maintaining win-win relationships with partner factories,” the company stated.
If Uniqlo decides to build a manufacturing site in the Philippines, the DTI is prepared to facilitate connections with weaving communities, producers, and designers to help the brand establish a more local supply base.
“Under the visionary leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., I am confident that a partnership between Uniqlo and the Philippines would be a powerful force for positive change in the global fashion landscape,” said Roque.
To get a head start with the potential partnership, the DTI chief has invited Uniqlo to consider having pop-up showcases within its stores across the country.
She said this could feature sustainable local products, coinciding with the cultural exchange goals that have long shaped the diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines.
Roque likewise recognized the fashion brand for its “impressive performance” and “positive contributions” to the Philippine economy.
Particularly, she noted that she was quite impressed by Uniqlo’s advocacy for sustainability under its "Unlocking the Power of Clothing" initiative, which is based on the notion of making high quality clothing that is built to last.
“The Philippines is fully committed to working with global retailers like Uniqlo who share a vision of responsible sourcing and environmental consciousness,” she continued.
As of Feb. 28, Uniqlo operates 74 stores in the Philippines, with more stores already slated to open in the coming months.
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