The International Trade Centre (ITC) and the International Apparel Federation (IAF) are about to reveal their AI-driven fashion supply chain project at the IAF World Fashion Convention in Philadelphia.

This project, in partnership with SPESA, brings innovative methods from the automobile and electronics industries to fashion supply chains to achieve 'smart flexibility.' This approach allows fashion businesses to adjust production based on actual demand, reducing excess inventory and overproduction.

'Smart flexibility' combines process optimization and data tools, including AI, to help fashion suppliers add significant value for brands and manufacturers. It aims to surpass traditional low-cost global sourcing, marking a shift in how the fashion industry sources its products.

The Sustainable Terms of Trade Initiative (STTI), an organization promoting fair purchasing practices, recognized the importance of achieving full supply chain profitability. 'Smart flexibility' or shared risk offers an alternative to imbalanced sourcing relationships, promoting sustainability and better purchasing practices beyond traditional contracts.