The first Ice and Snow Economy Conference for the Textile and Apparel Industry takes place in Changchun, Northeast China's Jilin province on Jan 10. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

The first Ice and Snow Economy Conference for the Textile and Apparel Industry was held on Jan 10 in Changchun, alongside the 70th-anniversary celebration of Changchun Vivat Garment Group.

Guided by the China National Textile and Apparel Council, the event brought together more than 600 participants, including government officials, industry experts, entrepreneurs, business associations and media representatives, to discuss the future of ice-and-snow-focused textile and apparel development and to commemorate the company's seven decades of growth.

Guests are invited to speak on stage. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

Li Weiguo, secretary of the Party working committee of the Changchun Economic and Technological Development Zone, highlighted the city's abundant ice and snow resources, solid industrial foundation, and strong development potential. He noted that the zone has built a diversified portfolio of ice- and snow-related products, spanning smart winter apparel, high-end ice blade equipment, and professional protective gear, positioning the ice and snow economy as a powerful driver of regional vitalization.

Xia Lingmin, secretary-general of the China National Textile and Apparel Council, outlined pathways for the industry to ride the momentum of the ice and snow economy. He noted that Changchun, as a major ice and snow tourism destination, has taken the lead in exploring an integrated model featuring year-round operations, full industrial chains, and city-wide development, forming a distinctive industrial ecosystem and urban identity.

The fabrics used for sports events are introduced to the guests. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

At the conference, Li Rui, deputy director of the working group for the 33rd FISU Winter World University Games, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the event's role as both a premier international youth sports competition and a platform for cultural exchange.

Wang Ruixue, one of China's Top 10 Best Textile Designers, shared insights on global trends in ice and snow sportswear, noting a growing convergence of functionality and fashion.

Yue Fusheng, deputy general manager of Jilin Chemical Fiber Group, presented applications of carbon fiber in ice and snow sports, highlighting how high-performance materials support lighter, stronger, and more advanced equipment.