Africa reimagined at Shanghai Fashion Week 2025

As Africa cements its place in the global creative economy, a dynamic group of the continent's top fashion designers is making their debut in China's fashion capital, Shanghai.

For the first time, over 20 leading African fashion brands are presenting their work on one of Asia's most influential fashion platforms, the Shanghai Fashion Week.

Under the banner of the "Africa Reimagined Showroom," the showcase spans runway appearances and exclusive showrooms — spotlighting the vibrancy, innovation, and craftsmanship that define contemporary African design.

But this moment goes beyond fashion. It's also about enhancing Africa's cultural diplomacy and deepening business-to-business links across key Asian markets.

From Sourcing to Showcasing: A Full Circle Moment

Mozambican designer Taibo Bacar reflected on returning to China 14 years after her first sourcing trip:

"Back then, we came here looking for materials we couldn't find at home. Today, we're here not just to source — but to offer our product to the Chinese market."

For Bacar, this moment symbolizes how far African fashion has come — both creatively and commercially.

Tanzanian designer Anissa Mpungwe shared a similar sentiment:

"To be in a space where there's no limit to your dreams is something I'm experiencing for the first time. This feels like leveling up creatively."

Design, Identity & Expression

On the runway, the designers are telling stories that blend heritage with innovation. Mpungwe described African design as "unapologetic," shaped by youth, history, and bold expression.

Bacar emphasized that African fashion is not a singular aesthetic — but a rich blend of global influences, tailored cuts, and timeless elegance rooted in identity.

"Fashion is a global language. We use embroidery and storytelling to connect to Africa, but our designs empower women everywhere — beyond geography."

Reimagining Africa, Reimagining Perception

For Hannah Ryder, CEO of Development Reimagined, fashion is about more than garments — it's a gateway to economic transformation, cultural diplomacy, and Africa's brand on the global stage.

"Fashion transforms raw materials into high-value products. It's a powerful entry point to understanding Africa's potential — not just as a creative hub, but as the world's next manufacturing home."

She added that Shanghai Fashion Week was strategically chosen not only for its prestige but because of the growing purchasing power and curiosity of Chinese consumers.

The Opportunity Ahead

Designers like Mpungwe and Bacar see China not only as a market but as a space for collaboration. While they haven't yet partnered with Chinese designers, they're open to exploring shared creativity, manufacturing, and innovation.

Beyond the showcase, Development Reimagined is organizing visits to e-commerce platforms and manufacturers in China — laying the groundwork for long-term cooperation, from retail partnerships to joint investments.

What's Next?

This is just the beginning. Africa Reimagined aims to create sustained pathways between Africa and Asia's fashion ecosystems — driving investment, trade, and cultural exchange.

As Ryder put it:

"We want to double, triple, even quadruple African textile and fashion exports to China. The opportunity is real — and the moment is now."