Imported machinery boosts output, design flexibility

The table linen industry in mainland China has recorded steady growth over the past five years, with exports to the United States, Europe, Asia and Africa, amounting to about $1.5 billion in 2003.

As forecasts for this year remain optimistic, several makers have begun investing in new machines to boost design competitiveness and to absorb more of the production processes, which they normally subcontract due to high manufacturing costs. A machine for producing nonwoven cloths, for instance, can go as high as $1 million.

Makers interviewed for this report have added production lines and multicolor printing machines specifically for PVC table linens. These are sourced from Taiwan and Japan.

Investments in R&D are focused on production of plastics and new patterns and colors. The output of printed PE and PEVA table linen is higher than PVC as the latter is manufactured using more costly machines.

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Leslie Lovejoy is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-home-decor.com. Home decorating tips and ideas to showcase any room with style.

	Table Linen Industry
Imported machinery boosts output, design flexibility