Written by: Nashmia Amir Butt
At the recent BRICS+ Fashion Summit, fashion leaders from more than 50 countries gathered to establish a new association that represents a significant step forward in the evolving fashion economy: the BRICS International Fashion Federation (BRICS IFF). This initiative aims to shift the focus of the fashion industry, foster international collaboration, enhance efficiency, promote sustainability, and create new opportunities for the next generation of designers.
The memorandum establishing the BRICS IFF was signed in Moscow by heads of fashion weeks, CEOs of fashion and textile organizations, and leaders from educational institutions across countries including India, South Africa, Russia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Ghana, Tanzania, Jordan, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Kenya.
Sunil Sethi, Chairman of the Fashion Design Council of India, emphasized the urgency for this alliance of emerging markets: “Brands, designers, and markets face similar challenges—from supply chain disruptions to environmental concerns—that are easier to tackle together. The fashion industry currently revolves around a handful of global brands, so it’s crucial for emerging markets to have a platform to amplify our voices.”
The BRICS International Fashion Federation is committed to an inclusive philosophy, with a central mission to strengthen and expand the network of fashion organizations worldwide. Its goals include promoting local designers, advocating for environmentally responsible practices, enhancing cultural relations, and fostering collaboration among emerging economies through information and educational initiatives. Participating nations plan to support new technologies, preserve cultural identities, and sustain traditional crafts.
The official statement highlights the federation’s dedication to providing a global platform and local events for visionary designers, ensuring their creative contributions are recognized on the world stage. The BRICS IFF will prioritize sustainable and eco-friendly practices, aiming to implement transparent methodologies that significantly reduce the fashion industry’s carbon footprint. Central to its agenda is the concept of slow fashion, which promotes mindful consumption and production to lessen the environmental impact.
Taking place from October 3-5 in Moscow, the BRICS+ Fashion Summit attracted representatives from over 100 countries, solidifying its role as the largest fashion event focused on emerging markets.
