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Sweden and Japan both have rich traditions in craftsmanship and innovation, and this initiative seeks to strengthen ties, promote sustainable fashion, and drive innovation in textile production, design, and circular economy solutions.
This exchange can then be shared with the rest of the world and become a catalyst for a positive impact on sustainability.

【Reflection】
This event aimed to share the forefront of Sweden’s sustainable fashion and textile industry with a Japanese audience, featuring speakers from government, academia, and the private sector.

In the keynote address, Susanne Nejderås, Head of Textile Strategy at the University of Borås, presented Sweden’s Textile & Fashion 2030 initiative, highlighting innovations in sustainable materials and circular design. From Japan, Koji Yanai of Fast Retailing (parent company of UNIQLO) introduced the company's LifeWear philosophy and its broader sustainability strategy.

Two panel discussions explored international public-private collaboration, structural transformation in the fashion industry, and the potential to create new ecosystems. Panelists included representatives from H&M Southeast Asia, the UN EXPO team, and Synflux, among others—offering practical insights grounded in real-world cases and experience.

The exhibition component showcased pieces made from recycled materials by Textile & Fashion 2030 and Swedish fashion brand Hodakova, along with a collection of redesigned UN guide uniforms. These displays provided a tangible vision of innovation for attendees.

Covering the full lifecycle of fashion—from material selection and design to production, distribution, and post-use processing—the event offered a comprehensive look at sustainable fashion and clearly outlined pathways for future collaboration between Sweden and Japan.


【Post EXPO Initiatives】
The insights and discussions presented throughout the event clearly outlined a practical path for collaboration between Sweden and Japan, centered around Sweden’s Textile & Fashion 2030 platform.

First, material development and implementation: Research on recycled fibers and bio-based materials led by the University of Borås and participating companies is now entering a phase where international cooperation is essential. The potential for pilot projects and joint development with the Japanese market is increasingly tangible.

Second, the deployment of circular design-based products and business models: The event showcased innovations such as Synflux’s algorithm-driven zero-waste design and Hodakova’s upcycled fashion pieces. These approaches represent viable alternatives to mass production and waste-heavy models and could form the foundation for new business ventures in partnership with Japanese companies.

Third, talent development and cultural exchange: The Swedish Fashion Council is actively investing in nurturing the next generation of designers. Plans are now underway for collaborative projects and exchange programs with Japanese fashion and design institutions, aiming to foster deeper bilateral engagement.

A standout example featured in the exhibition—the redesigned UN guide uniforms—highlighted the practical application of Swedish fashion philosophy, where functionality and aesthetics coexist. This demonstrated how Swedish sustainable fashion is not merely expressive but serves as a tool for structural intervention in society.

Together, these developments position Sweden’s approach as an effective framework for real, impactful collaboration with Japan. Going forward, continued and expanding cooperation will require sustained, follow-up engagement from institutions in both countries.