Why China?
The question, 'Why do you produce in China?' is often asked. Our customers are critical thinkers, and skepticism is crucial in purchasing products and supporting brands that align with your values. In fact, we encourage it!
We produce in China for many reasons, including the delicious bao (steamed buns) we get to eat when we visit! But beyond the excellent food, we rely on our production partners in China to produce our products responsibly. Read on to learn why!
China is where the magic of YALA began!
YALA has an exclusive partnership with a small, family-run sewing factory in China, and we have worked with these same Production Partners at this factory since 2006. During this time, we have built endearing relationships with our partners through frequent visits. They are highly skilled in their fields and fundamental to YALA's success.
Producing in China reduces our carbon footprint
YALA's organic bamboo is grown in the Shunan Forest in Sichuan, China, where it is processed into pulp. This pulp is transported to Heibei province, about 1600 km away, and processed into yarn. Some of the bamboo yarn is woven into bedding fabric locally.
The rest goes to Changshu City, about 1000 km away, where it is knit into fabric and dyed. YALA's bedding and garments are also cut and sewn in Changshu City, which is very close to the Shanghai Port and Shanghai International Airport, less than two hours by car.
In contrast, it's common in garment manufacturing for a fiber to be grown in one country and shipped across multiple borders for cheaper labor before it finally reaches its distribution point. Even with YALA's overseas partnership, having every production stage within a relatively small radius reduces transportation emissions.
Producing in China ensures worker safety and livelihood
The Chinese government maintains strict safety and work regulations that protect our Production Partners with extensive training and a safe working environment. In addition, China's labor regulations also ensure our staff is not overworked or underpaid.
Bamboo fabric was developed in China
Most bamboo grows in China, and China is the largest producer of bamboo fabric, developing the process in the early 2000s. Because of this, the region is highly experienced, knowledgeable, and equipped to process bamboo pulp into fabric utilizing sustainable, closed-loop systems that have been refined and optimized over two decades.
Of course, not all bamboo is harvested and processed sustainably in China, just as not all cotton grown in the US is organically or sustainably grown. However, producing with the same partners in facilities we have frequented since 2006 ensures our processes remain sustainable, which can be confirmed through our many third-party certifications.
Hopefully, this deep dive will increase understanding. It's wise to look beyond a label and into a brand's specific workings to stand behind it. We want you to have the same confidence purchasing YALA products that we experience working with our Production Partners!
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