Benin begins exporting U.S. branded garments to Europe

Zè, Benin (11 September 2024) – Benin, which along with Togo is a small Francophone state sandwiched between Ghana and Nigeria in West Africa, has exported its first consignment of clothing under the American brand, U.S. POLO ASSN.

In a release, Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ) (www.GDIZ-Benin.com) said: “This first shipment represents a significant step forward in the integration of GDIZ into the global supply chains of the ready-to-wear sector. The collaboration, which is expected to generate volumes of more than one million pieces over the next few years, is being carried out in partnership with INCOM S.P.A., which holds the licence for U.S. Polo Assn. on the European market. All garments shipped from GDIZ are destined for the European market via INCOM S.P.A.”

It said the first shipment was for the Italian market, and included hooded sweatshirts, polos and T-shirts.

“This partnership with U.S. POLO ASSN. follows several other shipments already made for international brands such as the American brand The Children's Place (TCP) and the French brand KIABI. The confidence shown by these international brands has strengthened GDIZ's position as a key player in textile production in Africa.”

Létondji Beheton, MD of the Société d'Investissement et de Promotion de l'Industrie (SIPI-Benin), said: “This first export of ‘Made in Benin’ clothing for U.S. Polo Assn. is a testament to our growing capacity to produce high-quality textiles that meet international standards.”

Francesco Gozzini, production director of INCOM Italy, said: “We are honoured to be working with Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ) on this significant export of garments for the U.S. Polo Assn brand. This partnership is a testament to the quality and dedication present in

Benin's textile industry, which fits perfectly with our commitment to offer excellence in every product we offer to the European market. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in these garments reflect the high standards we maintain at INCOM.”