The global fashion industry is undergoing a significant transformation as new trade policies from Western markets begin to take effect. Recent tariff hikes by the U.S. and EU—primarily targeting Chinese electric vehicles, batteries, and green technology—are sending shockwaves through supply chains worldwide. Workers in a South Asian textile factory (Photo: The Hawk) The China+1 Strategy and South Asia's Opportunity For decades, South Asian nations like Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka have been key players in garment manufacturing, offering competitive labor costs and large-scale production capabilities. However, the new tariffs, combined with shifting trade dynamics, are forcing manufacturers and brands to rethink their sourcing strategies. The so-called "China+1" approach—where companies diversify production beyond China—has already benefited countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh. Now, with additio...