Storyline: Global textile makers bring new tech to apparel fabrics exhibition in Shanghai [Voice_over] This is a denim shirt made from nylon. While denim is usually made from cotton, this manufacturing innovation makes the shirt at least 50 percent lighter. It's the first time American fabric maker Burlington has showcased the technology. [Sound_bite] Andrew Hicks, Global Sales & Marketing Director, Burlington Fabrics: "We could see cost benefits for sure, but we also were targeting the weights that typically aren't associated with denim or cellulose, so we were able to achieve a lightweight products that give you a similar appearance both in wovens, as well as knits." [Voice_over] Innovations are not only happening on the production-side. This is an AI-based assistant for fashion designers. It can provide designers with fashion advice based on their own inspirations and sketches. [Sound_bite] Calvin Wong, CEO & Centre Director, Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design: "In traditional fashion design process, designers need to spend from few weeks and even up to few months to edit, modify and finalize you know, the fashion collection for the upcoming season based on the initial creative idea. It seems like AI can really help to speed up this process and also at the same time a generative AI can also inspire designer creativity." [Stand_up] Chen Tong, Reporter: "From new tech to new fabrics, innovations are what exhibitors are showcasing. But the question is, with all these types of innovations coming out, will the traditional textile industry which provides immense job opportunities be challenged? " [Voice_over] Last year, textile industry jobs accounted for over eight percent of the entire manufacturing sector in China. Industry insiders believe the rapid development of new technology may bring some challenges, but also considerable benefits. [Sound_bite] Olaf Schmidt, Vice President, Textiles & Textile Technologies: "Of course, it will be in change definitely also for the employees, but I see more chances than risk for this kind of industry. I think there are two directions — first in the textile processing industry for the production of garments and also of textiles that you have for example, cloud solutions to produce smaller quantities on demand production and in addition, for designers. Designers are able to create something new for the industry in a very, very short time." [Voice_over] Thousands of the exhibitors attended this season's intertextile show in Shanghai. Eight overseas buyer groups were also there to explore the latest industry innovations. [Restrictions : No access Chinese mainland]