This season’s must-have is not a flashy
designer handbag but breathable, disposable protective medical gear — as seen
on models striding along a catwalk in northeastern China.
Although the country’s economy was battered by coronavirus lockdowns early
this year, industries quickly bounced back: exports of medical products like
masks have rocketed.
Over the weekend, hopeful Chinese manufacturers showcased their wares in
Liaoning province at a protective clothing expo — for example, touting
thicker but more airy gear that helps doctors to sweat less wearing them.
Potential buyers could see models sashay past wearing the gear — and not
limited to coronavirus suits, but also showcasing firefighters and power
maintenance outfits, according to state broadcaster CCTV.
“Our medical protective products, including the masks and protective
clothing, are expected to have a total export volume of more than 70 billion
US dollars this year,” Li Lingshen, deputy head of the China National Textile
and Apparel Council, told CCTV.
Overseas shipments of textiles, including face masks, had surged 33 percent
in the first 11 months according to customs figures this week, with
governments abroad putting in place measures to contain the virus.
But economists have cautioned that many Covid-related purchases will not
happen again, with vaccines around the world soon expected to be rolled out.(AFP)