Sustainable Fashion in Asia: Insights from the Fashion World Tokyo

The 12th Spring edition of FaW TOKYO (FASHION WORLD TOKYO), held from March 26-28, 2025, once again proved to be Japan’s largest fashion trade show, bringing together over 600 exhibitors and nearly 15,000 visitors. While the availability of vegan and cruelty-free textiles in the Asian market remains limited, this year’s event demonstrated growing interest in sustainable innovation.

The SUSTAINABLE FASHION EXPO, one of the eight key shows, featured over 60 exhibitors showcasing eco-conscious materials, ethical production methods, and next-generation alternatives to animal-derived fabrics. As Vegan Fashion Repository, we explored the brands that most closely align with our values, highlighting those leading the shift toward a more ethical and sustainable future.

FABRIC & TEXTILE PRODUCERS

HOLON BIONICS – previously Heri Farm’s (South Korea)

As the fashion industry searches for alternatives to animal leather and petroleum-based synthetics, Holon Bionics is redefining sustainable luxury with its innovative mushroom leather. Rooted in over 30 years of expertise in mycology and agricultural life sciences, the company is developing high-quality, eco-friendly materials that seamlessly blend technology with nature.

At the core of Holon Bionics’ philosophy is the belief that fungi are the origin of life on Earth—a concept that echoes the Gaia theory, which views the planet as a self-regulating, living entity. This perspective drives their mission to create biodegradable, ethical materials that support both fashion and the environment.

Heri Farm’s proprietary mushroom leather offers an animal-free, low-impact alternative with a 90% reduction in CO₂ emissions and water consumption compared to traditional leather. As the mushroom leather market is projected to grow by 48.5% annually, Heri Farms is at the forefront, utilizing its proprietary biological fibrillation technology and smart farming systems to lead this revolution.

With a deep commitment to sustainability and scientific innovation, Heri Farms` is proving that the future of fashion is not only stylish but also regenerative.

WA.CLOTH® HYBRID & BANANA CLOTH (Japan)

Both WA.CLOTH® HYBRID and BANANA CLOTH, created by MN Inter-Fashion Ltd., offer innovative, eco-friendly alternatives in the world of sustainable textiles.

WA.CLOTH® HYBRID is crafted from paper yarn, a natural filament fiber that provides excellent moisture-wicking properties. Its unique structure regulates body temperature, keeping one cool in summer and warm in winter, while also offering antibacterial and UV-protecting features. This lightweight, durable fabric is designed to meet the demands of sustainable fashion without compromising on performance.

On the other hand, BANANA CLOTH is banana fibers—once discarded as agricultural waste—transformed into a beautiful, ethical fabric. Sourced from banana stalks, which are typically left behind after harvest, this textile helps reduce waste and contributes to a circular economy. It offers an alternative to traditional fibers like cotton and linen, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious fashion.

Both fabrics provide innovative and eco-friendly options for designers and fashion brands looking to make a positive environmental impact. They were also added to our Vegan Fabrics & Textiles Directory in the March update.

HONCHEER (SUZHOU) TEXTILE (China)

HONCHEER (SUZHOU) TEXTILE is committed to sustainable textile innovation, providing recycled nylon, rPET (recycled polyester), and other eco-friendly fabrics for apparel, bags, outdoor gear, and home textiles. The company holds green environmental recycling certifications (OEKO-Tex and GRS) and issues TC transaction certificates, ensuring transparency in sustainable material sourcing.

With a focus on resource conservation and CO2 reduction, HONCHEER’s lightweight and durable fabrics support brands in creating high-quality, environmentally responsible products. Their materials not only meet industry sustainability standards but also help enhance brand value through certified eco-friendly practices. At the Expo, we received samples of their recycled nylon and rPET fabrics, further reflecting their dedication to sustainable fashion solutions.

Driven by the philosophy of mutual growth, HONCHEER (SUZHOU) TEXTILE continues to advance in textile research, development, and production, striving to contribute to a more sustainable and responsible industry.

FUJIAN HUAXIA SYNTHETIC LEATHER CO., LTD (China)

Founded in 2005, Fujian Huaxia Synthetic Leather Co., Ltd. is a leading innovator in sustainable synthetic leather, based in the Longan Industrial Zone of Fuding City, Fujian Province. With a total investment of 1.2 billion yuan, the company has grown into a national high-tech enterprise focused on research and development of ecological, water-based, recycled, and high-performance synthetic leathers.

Over the years, Fujian Huaxia has expanded its production capabilities, introducing key advancements such as protein leather, water-based leather, and breathable leather. Their products, used across diverse industries like fashion, automotive interiors, health, and electronics, are recognized for their commitment to sustainability and innovation. The company’s focus on eco-friendly materials has earned them certifications like the GRS Renewable Product Certification, OK-100, and recognition as a National Green Factory.

Additionally, Fujian Huaxia has contributed to shaping industry standards and is a trusted supplier for global brands like LV, Armani, GUESS, CK, ZARA, and BOSS.

FASHION BRANDS

THAIVETRO / WEAR ME I WAS WASTE (Thailand)

THAIVETRO is redefining jewelry by blending artistry, craftsmanship, and sustainability. With over 20 years of experience, THAIVETRO has become a trusted name in glass jewelry and decorative design, exporting to over 30 countries and 70 cities worldwide. Their expertise spans from intricate animal-shaped souvenirs to finely crafted glass jewelry, all designed with precision and vibrant aesthetics.

At the Expo, WEAR ME I WAS WASTE, their sustainable collection, showcased an innovative approach to jewelry-making. The process transforms ocean waste, including microplastics from beach bottle caps, into unique, handcrafted pieces. Using AI-assisted design, 3D modeling, and expert hand-finishing, the brand turns discarded materials into stunning jewelry—proving that sustainability and elegance can go hand in hand.

THAIVETRO’s commitment extends beyond design; they offer OEM, ODM, and OBM services, ensuring flexibility for global brands. With a focus on quality, innovation, and responsible production, they continue to push boundaries in ethical fashion, making every piece a statement of both style and sustainability.

EKKO (Thailand)

ekko is dedicated to reducing plastic waste and fostering a more sustainable future. Originating from Hydro Hygienics, a company focused on recycling post-consumption and post-production plastic waste from drinking water bottles, ekko repurposes discarded plastic caps into high-quality, stylish products. Through innovative processes, waste is transformed into valuable items such as furniture, panels, and accessories, keeping plastics out of landfills and incinerators.

The main material, HDPE (high-density polyethylene), is made from recycled plastic caps, offering a variety of colours. This material is not only durable but also recyclable multiple times, ensuring that products made from it can have a second life when needed.

ekko aligns with Goal 12 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals: “Responsible Consumption and Production.” The commitment to sustainability extends beyond creating eco-friendly products, with careful monitoring and calculation of the carbon footprint of operations and products to minimize environmental impact.

Currently, available products include stools, combs, bags, and hangers, all crafted from recycled materials.

ZERO PERCENT 0% (South Korea)

Zero Percent [0%] combines sustainability with fashion, focusing on carbon neutrality and minimizing CO2 emissions. Using recycled materials like signage fabric, seatbelts, and banners, along with plant-based cork, they embrace the slow fashion movement while promoting zero waste.

Cork, harvested from tree bark every 9 years, offers a renewable alternative to animal leather. Zero Percent also repurposes flex-based signage, a durable, waterproof material commonly used on streets. Instead of going to landfills, it’s transformed into fashion items, with no additional inks or materials used—preserving the original graphics. In 2024, they will launch upcycled products made from this material, continuing their commitment to a circular economy.

Seatbelts, engineered for strength and durability to protect lives, are now given a second life as eco-friendly fashion accessories. This innovative use transforms these safety items into stylish and sustainable products. In addition, fabric and leather scraps—materials often discarded due to defects or overproduction—are carefully reprocessed into fashion accessories, giving these resources a second chance and preventing them from being incinerated or sent to landfills.

Zero Percent also tackles the ever-growing problem of plastic waste by transforming discarded plastics into recycled fabrics. Additionally, they address the issue of waste nets, which are discarded in massive quantities every year. These nets are repurposed into valuable products, creating more sustainable alternatives.

Note on Leather Waste Scraps: Although Zero Percent’s website mentions the use of leather waste scraps, no leather-based products were observed either on their website or during the TEXTILE EXPO. The entire collection showcased at their booth featured cork leather products.

THE FUTURE OF ASIAN FASHION MARKET

Fashion World Tokyo 2025 proved that the Asian fashion market is undergoing a transformation. More manufacturers—even in China—are starting to integrate sustainable practices, showing a shift towards more responsible production. However, discovering these companies online remains a challenge, making in-person events like this crucial for identifying brands actively embracing change.

That said, the road to 100% vegan fashion in Asia is still long. While some exhibitors presented innovative sustainable materials, such as CRAFTEVO ReTE’s decomposable polyester, the brand still exploits animals in its processes (to create the compost). Others, despite promoting eco-friendly initiatives, continue to rely on animal-derived materials like silk and cashmere. Progress is happening, but achieving a truly ethical fashion industry will require stronger commitments, greater transparency, and a growing demand for cruelty-free alternatives.

Fashion World Tokyo takes place twice a year, with the next edition scheduled for October 1 (Wed) – 3 (Fri), 2025. Stay tuned for more insights and emerging trends in the evolving Asian fashion market!