Nine World Cup teams play in Made-in-Taiwan uniforms

Brazil, the Netherlands, Portugal, the United States, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Serbia and Slovenia.

These uniforms are an example of Taiwan’s work to protect the environment. Plastic bottles are broken down and drawn into strands to create the fibers and materials used in these shirts. On average, eight plastic bottles can be recycled into one jersey. According to the Industrial Development Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, which provides jersey manufacturers with assistance, over 13 million polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles were used to produce the 2010 World Cup jerseys for the teams and for retailers. This not only shows Taiwan’s technological superiority, but also fits in with trendy “green” concepts, indicating that MIT products have earned global affirmation.

To make the soccer shirts, the Taiwan Textile Research Institute (TTRI) said, recycled PET bottles have to be reprocessed and extruded into polyester fiber, which then is turned into thread or yarn before being spun into fabric. Dyeing techniques are also crucial as coloring standards for FIFA soccer jerseys are quite strict. To make jerseys that meet Global Green Standards, the environmentally friendly fabric has to be dyed properly. In this regard, Taiwan has world-class technology. If cost-effectiveness and quality are also taken into account, there can be no doubt of Taiwan’s being the world leader in this area.

After years of vigorous efforts by the TTRI in research and development as well as technology transfer, Taiwan has innovated and made steady breakthroughs in textile-fiber-production technology and dyeing techniques. For this reason, Taiwanese textiles have become a favorite choice of renowned international sports brands.

The entire production process—from the collection of PET bottles to their processing into fabrics and the completion of finished products—was carried out in Taiwan. Given that uniform colors have special meaning, the manufacturing and dyeing requirements are more stringent than usual. That Taiwan has this opportunity to shine on the international stage indicates that its manufacturing technology and textile quality have again received global recognition. It is also an affirmation of Taiwan’s efforts to conserve energy and reduce carbon emissions in response to climate change.

The TTRI pointed out that making these high-quality jerseys from recycled plastic bottles is in line with “green” environmental concepts. These jerseys, made of recycled polyester, weigh 13 percent less than their traditionally made counterparts. Fashioned of 144-thread-count fibers, shirts remain dry and light as they cause sweat to evaporate quickly.

The organisation also stated that Taiwanese fabrics made from recycled plastic bottles are 10 percent more stretchy than ordinary fabrics. Cut to fit, these jerseys provide athletes with unmatched airflow and pliability. They speak to Taiwan’s outstanding achievements in textile-manufacturing technology and serve as a testament to Taiwan’s commitment to protecting the environment, conserving energy, and reducing carbon emissions.