How the Global South Will Shape Fashion’s Next Decade | BoF CROSSROADS 2025

In CROSSROADS’ opening talk, BoF Insights director Rawan Maki walked the audience through the emerging markets that constitute the global south, and how they’re slated to define the fashion industry’s next era. Five of the key dynamics uniting the global south are rapid economic growth; dynamic young populations; rising second- and third-tier cities; supply chain hubs; and high potential in exports rooted in creativity and craft. Strategically, brands must take long-term but flexible approaches to engaging younger shoppers in up-and-coming urban hubs. When it comes to manufacturing and sourcing, cultural soft power and sustainability, the global south will only play a bigger role in the next decade, even as factors like the US tariffs affect profit margins in the short term. “There is no sustainable future for the fashion industry without the global south,” said Maki. “How brands and retailers act today is going to shape their positioning in the global south and the world,” Maki concluded. “The big question is which ones will make the boldest bets?” Subscribe to BoF’s YouTube channel to never miss a video. CONNECT WITH THE BUSINESS OF FASHION: Web: https://www.businessoffashion.com Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/BoF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/businessoffa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/BoF LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-... Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/fashionbu... Newsletter: https://www.businessoffashion.com/new... ABO