This photo taken and beamed back to Earth autonomously by a mini rover released from the lander-ascender combination of Chang'e-6 probe shows a view of the combination itself on the lunar surface, June 3, 2024. [Photo/China National Space Administration]

Technology is reshaping traditional industries like textiles, according to Xu Weilin, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress, speaking on Thursday during the annual session of China's national legislature.

"There are no obsolete industries, only outdated technologies," Xu said, challenging the idea that traditional industries are declining. The Chinese Academy of Engineering academician and Wuhan Textile University president emphasized textiles' importance in daily life, cultural heritage, fashion and quality of life.

China's textile industry accounts for 4.5% of the country's GDP, produces over 70% of the world's chemical fibers and contributes to one-third of global textile exports, according to industry data. In Hubei province, textiles remain a key economic pillar, with annual revenue nearing 500 billion yuan ($68.96 billion).

Xu emphasized the textile industry's shift from being labor-intensive to technology-driven, expanding beyond clothing into medicine, aerospace and high-tech manufacturing. He cited Wuhan Textile University's breakthroughs, including lead-free radiation protection garments that are one-third the weight of traditional versions while offering better shielding. The university is also developing fiber-woven artificial blood vessels that could transform cardiovascular treatments.

The Chinese flag displayed on the moon's far side by the Chang'e-6 probe was made of ultra-fine basalt fibers, Xu said. It weighs just 11.3 grams but can withstand extreme space conditions.

In advanced manufacturing, heat-resistant fiber materials developed by Wuhan Textile University and Sanjiang Group are now used in hypersonic aircraft, while innovations in bulletproof vests and wind turbine blade reinforcement continue to advance the industry's technology.

Xu predicted that clothing would develop into intelligent health-monitoring devices. "In the future, clothing will function as smart health terminals," he said, citing joint research between Wuhan Textile University, Wuhan University and medical institutions on wearable fabrics that can track vital signs. Functional textiles are also driving advancements in sustainable architecture and home design, opening up new areas for growth.

Xu said Wuhan Textile University, a leader in textile education, is using its expertise to drive innovation in new materials and intelligent manufacturing. The university is also applying these advancements to modernize traditional disciplines.

Xu also called for targeted funding for universities with unique strengths, saying it would help integrate education, talent development and industry needs more closely.