News

The “Deadstock Ban” Wave: How North American Retailers Can Pivot in 2026

For decades, the fashion industry operated under a “quiet” consensus: it was often cheaper and safer for a brand’s prestige to destroy unsold inventory than to discount it. This practice, known as deadstock destruction, saw millions of tons of pristine garments shredded or incinerated to protect brand exclusivity and maintain high price points. However, the […]

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Border Enforcement Disruptions and Their Impact on the Secondhand Textile Trade in the U.S. (November 2025 Update)

The human side of circularity remains at risk Over recent months, U.S. border enforcement and immigration activity have continued to reshape the labour landscape across southern states—particularly Texas, Arizona, and California—where a large share of the nation’s secondhand textile collection, sorting, and baling work takes place. Increased enforcement operations by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

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Border Enforcement Disruptions and Their Impact on the Secondhand Textile Trade in the U.S.

How Deportations Are Disrupting Textile Recovery in Texas Recent escalations in immigration enforcement in the United States—particularly across border states like Texas—are having wide-reaching effects on communities, businesses, and supply chains. For those working in the secondhand clothing industry, the impact is being felt in ways that threaten the flow of goods, access to labor,

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Rag News: The Future of Used Clothing: Insights, Metrics & Market Moves

Market Insight Spotlight Kenya Overtakes Nigeria as Africa’s Top Importer of Secondhand Clothes According to a recent report from TheCable, Kenya has surpassed Nigeria as the continent’s leading importer of used clothing. This shift highlights evolving trade patterns, economic priorities, and the rising demand for quality, affordable garments. Read Full Article   🧭 Measuring Circularity

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Choppy Waters Ahead: Trade Wars and Regional Risks in Global Logistics

Moving into the first half of 2026, the logistics market is shifting from a state of constant emergency to a “managed chaos” phase. While the 2025 tariff wars and Red Sea disruptions have reached a tentative plateau, their secondary effects—specifically vessel redeployment and equipment imbalances—will define your shipping costs through June 2026. Here is the

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Rag News: Store Returns, LATAM Opportunities & Ghana’s Stand

Store Returns & Reverse Supply Chains: Unlocking Market Opportunities in 2025 Retail returns in the U.S. skyrocketed to $890 billion in 2024, making up 14.5% of total retail sales, according to the National Retail Federation and Happy Returns. Driven by e-commerce growth and shifting consumer behaviors, this surge is pushing retailers to reimagine how they

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Rag News: Key Trends, Secondhand Markets & Sustainability Efforts

Women Driving the Circular Economy Women are at the forefront of the circular economy, leading innovations and driving sustainable change in the secondhand textile industry. From upcycling initiatives to large-scale secondhand fashion enterprises, their contributions are shaping a more responsible and profitable future. At BVH, this commitment is reflected in its women-led facility in Adipur,

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Rag News: Circular Economy Insights: SMART Recap, Key Reports & Industry News

SMART Conference Recap The recent SMART Annual Convention 2025 in Dubai brought together global leaders in textile recycling, sustainability, and the secondhand clothing trade. One of the key takeaways was expert data proving that secondhand exports to Africa and South America are not “waste” but instead resold, playing a crucial role in these economies. These

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Rag News: Your Monthly Update on Secondhand Industry Trends

Supply Chain Update: ILA Port Strike Averted with Tentative Agreement The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) have successfully negotiated a tentative six-year agreement, bringing stability to East and Gulf Coast ports after months of uncertainty. Key Highlights of the Agreement: Wage Increase: Dock workers will see a 62% wage boost

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Rag News: Strategies for Port Disruptions + Industry Highlights

Recommendations for Wholesale Clients and Suppliers in the Secondhand Industry Amid Port Challenges With ongoing port negotiations and potential disruptions, here are quick tips to stay prepared: Diversify Logistics: Explore alternative ports, routes, and inland options. Strengthen Inventory: Build buffer stock and streamline sorting processes. Enhance Communication: Stay aligned with suppliers, buyers, and logistics partners.

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