Hyosung TNC Showcases Bio-Based Spandex Platform At Global Fashion Summit 2026
Hyosung TNC, one of the world’s largest spandex manufacturers, showcased its integrated bio-based spandex platform at the Global Fashion Summit 2026 held in Copenhagen from May 5–7.
As a principal sponsor of the summit, themed ‘Building Resilient Futures’, the company highlighted its efforts to scale bio-based stretch materials through infrastructure development, supply chain integration and industry collaboration.
Hyosung TNC presented its fully integrated production system in Vietnam, backed by an investment of nearly US$ 1 billion, which converts sugarcane-derived feedstock into Bio-BDO, Bio-PTMG and ultimately Bio Spandex within a single connected value chain.
The company participated in panel discussions, leadership roundtables and the Innovation Forum, where it showcased its Bio Spandex platform and applications for activewear, sportswear, denim, underwear and swimwear.
Speaking at the summit, Simon Whitmarsh-Knight said, “Large-scale commercial production is underway in Vietnam, and we can support the transition away from fossil-based stretch without asking fashion brands or consumers to compromise on performance.”
During the panel session on decarbonisation pathways, Sora Yoo said recycled spandex alone would not be enough to meet the industry’s long-term sustainability goals, as most recycled elastane still relies on fossil-based origins and limited manufacturing waste streams.
She noted that the company’s investment in bio-based spandex infrastructure was aimed at enabling industrial-scale adoption while maintaining performance, durability and supply resilience. Yoo also highlighted that price perception remains a major barrier to wider adoption of sustainable materials and stressed the need for greater consumer awareness and industry collaboration.
As part of its summit programme, Hyosung TNC also premiered its episode of Fashion Redressed II, produced by BBC StoryWorks in partnership with Global Fashion Agenda. The film traces the journey of sugarcane-based spandex production and the transition away from fossil-based stretch materials.
