Russia, Moscow: The BRICS+ Fashion Summit concluded in Moscow with a historic declaration: the leaders of fashion associations from more than 50 countries signed a memorandum to form the BRICS International Fashion Federation. The new federation seeks to establish new centres of influence, strengthen international ties, promote industry sustainability and provide development opportunities for a new generation of fashion talent. Notably, the summit was attended by delegates from more than 100 countries, cementing its status as the largest fashion event for both emerging and established markets.

Sunil Sethi, Chairman, Fashion Design Council of India said, “ Such a fashionable alliance of emerging nations is long overdue. Brands, designers and markets all face similar challenges – from supply chain disruptions to environmental issues – which are easier to solve together. With the fashion world focused on a few hundred global brands, emerging markets need their own platform to make their voices heard. ”

The Memorandum establishing the BRICS International Fashion Federation was signed by a number of influential personalities, including CEOs of fashion weeks, heads of fashion and textile associations, and academic leaders from countries such as India, South Africa, Russia, Ethiopia, Egypt, Spain,United States of America, Indonesia, Malaysia, Ghana, Tanzania, Jordan, Ecuador, Paraguay and Kenya.

Deputy Mayor of Moscow, Natalya Sergunina, highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying: “The creation of this international federation is a key outcome of the recent BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow. It once again demonstrates our shared goals and considerable potential for development with our global partners.”

The declaration sets out several key objectives: supporting local talent, promoting sustainable fashion, fostering cultural exchange and creating an integrated platform for emerging markets through educational and knowledge-enhancing projects. It also focuses on the development of new technologies, the preservation of cultural identity and the support of traditional arts and crafts.

"We are committed to providing these visionaries with a global platform and local events to ensure that their creative work is celebrated globally. We aim to promote sustainable and eco-friendly practices, trying to implement transparent methods that will significantly reduce the fashion industry's carbon footprint. " The official statement says, " Slow fashion, characterised by conscious consumption and production, will be at the centre of the BRICS IFF agenda in our effort to reduce fashion's environmental impact. "