Australian wool and cotton take centre stage at World Expo Osaka to champion sustainable fibres
Australia’s world-leading natural fibre industries - wool and cotton - were in the global spotlight earlier this month as Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) and Cotton Australia joined forces to champion the sustainability of Australian fibres at World Expo Osaka.
Hosted by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) on October 10, the event, titled, Sustainability of Australia’s Fibre Industries, welcomed 85 invite-only guests to the Australia Pavilion. Attendees included leading Japanese trading houses, supply chain partners, and global fashion and textile brands.
The session provided an opportunity for Australia’s natural fibre industries to showcase how they are working collaboratively to deliver tangible climate and nature outcomes, underpinned by science and transparency.
AWI’s Global Sustainability Manager (Acting) Lisa Griplas delivered a keynote presentation introducing Woolmark+, including the groundbreaking Woolmark+ Australian Wool Insetting Program and the Woolmark+ Nature Positive Farming Framework - two initiatives designed to connect brands directly with Australian woolgrowers.
“It was an honour to represent Australian wool on the world stage in Osaka and to show that Australian woolgrowers are at the forefront of sustainable fibre production,” Ms Griplas said.
“Through Woolmark+, we’re helping connect Australian woolgrowers with global brands and partners who share their commitment to caring for land, animals, and community. Events like this demonstrate that what happens on Australian farms resonates far beyond our borders - it’s shaping the future of the global textile industry. Thank you to Austrade for making it possible.”
Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said it was a privilege to represent Australian cotton at the World Expo in Osaka and share how growers are producing a sustainable, high-quality fibre.
“Australian cotton is recognised for its high quality in Japan, and this event gave us the opportunity to connect that strong reputation with a broader global audience of brands and retailers who value traceable and responsibly grown natural fibres. We appreciate Austrade’s support in helping us share that story on the world stage,” Mr Kay said.
For Australian wool and cotton growers, the event reinforced that their efforts in land stewardship, biodiversity, and animal welfare are gaining global recognition. It showcased that Australian wool and cotton are not just raw materials, but a climate and nature solution and part of the global shift towards a more sustainable and circular textile future.
Together, AWI and Cotton Australia are demonstrating that Australian natural fibres can play a critical role in decarbonising the fashion and textile industries, while strengthening rural communities and on-farm resilience.
