Hyosung TNC has announced a major milestone in the commercialisation of bio-based textile materials, highlighting its progress toward large-scale production of bio-based spandex as the fashion industry accelerates efforts to reduce dependence on fossil-based inputs.

The development was showcased at the Global Fashion Summit 2026 in Copenhagen, where Hyosung participated as a principal sponsor under the event’s theme, “Building Resilient Futures.” The company used the platform to demonstrate how next-generation materials are moving beyond pilot projects toward scalable, commercially viable solutions.

As the world’s largest elastane manufacturer by market share, Hyosung said bio-based spandex has the potential to support fashion brands seeking lower-carbon alternatives while maintaining the performance characteristics required for activewear, sportswear, swimwear, underwear and denim products.

A key highlight of the company’s presentation was its fully integrated production system in Vietnam. Backed by an investment of nearly $1 billion, the facility converts sugarcane-derived feedstocks into Bio-BDO, Bio-PTMG and ultimately Bio Spandex through a connected value chain designed to support large-scale production.

Hyosung said the integrated approach strengthens supply chain efficiency and supports broader adoption of bio-based materials across the textile industry.

The company’s participation at the summit included an industry panel discussion, a leadership roundtable organised in collaboration with the Global Fashion Agenda, and a presence at the Innovation Forum aimed at showcasing its bio-based material journey.

Speaking during a panel discussion on value-chain decarbonisation, Hyosung Vice President of Marketing Sora Yoo emphasised the importance of collaboration across the entire fashion ecosystem.

According to Yoo, meaningful transformation requires alignment among consumers, brands, manufacturers and material innovators, allowing sustainable solutions to move from niche applications to mainstream adoption.

As part of its summit activities, Hyosung also premiered an episode of Fashion Redressed II, produced by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions for Hyosung TNC. The film explores the company’s efforts to develop bio-based stretch fibres and traces the journey of its materials from sugarcane feedstocks to finished spandex products.

Looking ahead, Hyosung will participate in the Future Fabrics Expo in Brussels on 24-25 June 2026, where it plans to present its Bio-BDO developments and join discussions on the transition from petrochemical-based fibres to bio-based alternatives.

The company believes continued investment in sustainable material innovation, combined with stronger industry collaboration, will play a critical role in accelerating the fashion sector’s transition toward lower-carbon and more circular production models.