ANTA Group: Reshaping the Sportswear Value Chain through Sustainable Product Capabilities
In today's environmentally conscious marketplace, consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions. They are no longer satisfied with sportswear that is merely high- quality and functional; they seek products that align with their values and contribute to a more sustainable future. ANTA Group regards sustainability as a core component of its corporate strategy. For ANTA, sustainable products are not environmental add- ons—they represent a new business pathway that integrates product performance, user experience, and environmental responsibility. Through material innovation, low- carbon design, lifecycle management, and systematic product- line upgrades, ANTA has established a clear roadmap for its sustainable product journey.
One of ANTA's flagship sustainable products is the Aerovent Zero windbreaker. This product addresses the environmental challenges of traditional waterproof membranes, which often rely on fluorinated compounds, by introducing ANTA's PFAS- free membrane that meets international performance standards. In addition, ANTA uses carbon dioxide captured from industrial waste gases to produce carbon- capture fibers. Each ton of fiber absorbs 1.2 tons of CO₂ and reduces emissions by 28.4% compared to virgin fibers. This innovation earned ANTA the Sustainability and Innovation Award from the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF), making it the only Chinese company to receive the award in 2024.
Aligned with its strategic goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, ANTA Group's greenhouse- gas reduction targets were validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) in 2024. The company also integrates carbon- reduction principles into product innovation, launching the industry's first carbon- neutral product—the Storm Armor—as well as carbon- neutral Olympic podium outfits and additional carbon- capture fiber products. Low- carbon solutions are applied across the value chain, from raw- material sourcing and green manufacturing to process design, packaging, and retail operations.
ANTA Group places strong emphasis on responsible sourcing and has developed a comprehensive sustainability program across its entire supply chain. In 2024, the Group conducted 786 ESG audits covering approximately 550 suppliers, with 159 suppliers completing third- party SLCP assessments and 321 suppliers passing the Higg FEM environmental performance evaluation. The Group also encourages suppliers to adopt renewable energy to reduce environmental impacts. In 2024, more than 100 suppliers installed photovoltaic systems, generating over 7.4 million MWh of solar energy, while purchases of green electricity exceeded 11 million MWh. The total value of green power certificates purchased surpassed 75 million MWh.
Furthermore, 99% of ANTA's footwear leather suppliers achieved LWG Gold- level certification, and over 90% of leather materials are traceable to their source. Additionally, 99% of down materials used in ANTA products are RDS- certified. ANTA has also joined the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) initiative, with supplier compliance reaching 92% in 2024.
Understanding carbon emissions throughout the product lifecycle enables ANTA Group to better assess climate impact and manage production resources. In 2024, the Group performed carbon- footprint assessments for 34 product models, covering more than 3 million items across seven brands, including footwear, apparel, and accessories. Among these, 26 products achieved carbon- neutral certification from independent third- party organizations following the implementation of targeted emissions- reduction measures. ANTA Group's sustainability practices illustrate that a sportswear brand can fully integrate environmental principles into product innovation while maintaining superior quality and performance. From PFAS- free materials and carbon- neutral gear to comprehensive lifecycle management, ANTA places product capability at the core and transforms sustainability into measurable commercial value. As sustainability becomes a new driver of innovation, it will help redefine the brand's future growth trajectory.