Mills Update: Bangladesh and India Manufacturers Share How They’re Using Natural Fibers
In the first months of 2026, supply chains had to contend with cost pressures and geopolitical turmoil.
As we head into the second half of the year, Carved in Blue is checking in with denim mills around the globe to get their take on the outlook for the rest of 2026. Here, executives from Jindal Textiles and Pioneer Denim share what buyers are seeking, collection highlights and where they see the market headed.
JINDAL TEXTILES
Aamir Akhtar, CEO and group president
Carved in Blue: Could you sum up what buyers are currently looking for in three words or phrases?
Aamir: What our denim customers are looking for includes natural softness that gives a lived-in hand feel, elevated aesthetics that come from fibers like TENCEL™, viscose, linen and other blends, and authentic pure indigos in rigid denims continue to be in trend.
Carved in Blue: What is the most outstanding story from your Fall/Winter 2027-28 collection?
Aamir: Our “Salad Bar” collection is an outstanding story. It is targeted towards a customer who believes in a “wellness lifestyle.” In this collection we have made denims with interesting natural fibers like TENCEL™, Himalayan grass, banana, agriculture waste, linen, hemp, etc. This story is resonating very well with all denim customers.
Carved in Blue: What is your outlook on the denim industry for the second half of the year?
Aamir: We have found Jindal customers to be very receptive to innovations and collaborations. This is independent of seasons. Therefore, we have a very positive outlook.
PIONEER DENIM
Christian Reca, worldwide marketing and merchandising manager
Carved in Blue: Could you sum up what buyers are currently looking for in three words or phrases?
Christian: Authenticity with purpose. Meaningful innovation. Trusted partnerships.
Today’s buyers are looking beyond claims and short-lived trends. They want authentic sustainability backed by measurable actions, innovation that creates real product differentiation and collections that offer strong commercial relevance.
At the same time, they are increasingly seeking reliable and vertically integrated partners who can respond quickly, support development from concept to production and adapt to changing market needs. In a complex environment, trust, agility and long-term collaboration have become just as important as the product itself.
Carved in Blue: What is the most outstanding story from your Fall/Winter 2027-28 collection?
Christian: Our Fall/Winter 2027-28 collection, “Storm of Love,” explores the balance between emotion, nature and innovation.
The collection introduces a richer material language through the integration of noble and natural fibers, refined textures and sophisticated fabric constructions that bring new depth to denim. Rather than following seasonal trends, the focus is on creating products with enduring value, combining comfort, performance and authenticity.
An important part of the story is also represented by the creative collaborations that continue to shape Pioneer’s identity. By bringing together different perspectives, expertise and craftsmanship, these partnerships help us develop fabrics that are technically advanced while carrying a strong aesthetic and emotional dimension. The result is a collection that elevates denim beyond its traditional boundaries while remaining true to its essence.
Carved in Blue: What is your outlook on the denim industry for the second half of the year?
Christian: We remain cautiously optimistic.
The market continues to face uncertainty, but denim has consistently proven its resilience. We expect brands and retailers to remain selective, focusing on products that offer a clear point of difference and on partners capable of delivering reliability, innovation and efficiency.
The second half of the year will likely reward companies that can balance creativity with operational excellence. While cost awareness remains important across the industry, the conversation is increasingly shifting toward value rather than price alone. Consumers are becoming more discerning, and brands need products that combine authenticity, responsible production and compelling storytelling. Those able to deliver this balance will be best positioned for sustainable growth.