Canada will be providing an unprecedented platform for apparel and textile manufacturers across the globe by hosting the Apparel Textile Sourcing Show (ATSC) – a first-of-its-kind event for the nation.

Jason Prescott, CEO of JP Communications, parent-company to TopTenWholesale.com and Manufacturer.com and organizer of the event said that the introduction of ATSC is a direct response to market demand and fills a significant gap in the Canadian market.

He added that ATSC provides an unparalleled opportunity for Canadian apparel and textile importers and retailers to access the most current importing information from industry insiders and connect with the world’s major apparel and textile manufacturers all under one roof, without having to incur the time or expense of travelling abroad.

In addition to the 200 international exhibits to be displayed at the show, ATSC will also feature three days of conference sessions lead by acclaimed industry and government experts, covering topics from the Trans-Pacific Partnership and other trade agreements, to best practices and the changing Canadian market, to tips on how to choose overseas producers and new approaches for Canadians looking to enter the U.S. market.

A panel on ethical manufacturing of apparel and textiles, featuring executives from quality control organizations Wrap and TesTex, will also be presented. A “Made in Canada” section, showcasing Canadian manufacturers who source apparel and textiles from abroad for their finished goods, as well as Canadian designers who have their designs produced into finished products overseas. A 2017 Apparel and Textile Trends display, providing a first-hand look at the colours, patterns and textures that will be all the rage for the coming year.

Presented in coordination with the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Textile and Apparel (CCCT), the event is supported by the Ottawa-based Canadian Apparel Federation (CAF), the Consulate General of the P. R. China in Toronto, the Trade Office of Peru, and exporting agencies ProMexico and ProColombia.

Bob Kirke, CAF Executive Director said that Canada has long needed a venue where apparel and textile importers and retailers can learn about sourcing best practices while meeting producers from around the world. ATSC offers an important new resource for our domestic market and the Canadian Apparel Federation is excited to support this endeavor..

According to Jian Wei Yu, Commercial Counsellor of the Consulate General of the P. R. China in Toronto, Canadian business owners and importers will have the opportunity to secure new partners among the more than 125 apparel suppliers from China represented at the event.

He said that Chinese suppliers are eager to do business with Canadian partners and work together to make the importing process smooth and efficient. Canadians are looking for simpler access to quality, competitive goods and an international sourcing event for the apparel sector is long overdue in this country.

The comprehensive trade show and conference, ATSC will take place August 22-24, 2016, at the International Centre in Toronto. The event will bring to Canada hundreds of apparel and textile manufacturers from around the world, including China, India, Bangladesh, Mexico, the U.S., Honduras, Peru and other countries.

Canadians import more than $14 billion in apparel and textiles annually, up 20 per cent from 2012.Small businesses, retailers, manufacturers and designers across Canada will get a boost because of ATSC. It will not only help in making global industry connections but will also provide attendees with new insights and up-to-date information needed to more easily and effectively navigate through the sourcing process.