In the heart of Shanghai, at No. 2 Wukang Road, Marjorie Yang welcomes visitors into her family’s historic courtyard. As the chair of the Esquel Group, one of the world’s leading textile and apparel manufacturers, Yang embodies a legacy woven from silk to cotton, tradition to transformation.
In a recent conversation, Yang reflected on the rising tariff tensions impacting global trade. “If the United States could use its technology and management to achieve more inclusive growth,” she remarked, “it wouldn’t have the anger that drives the government to look for an outside enemy.”
Esquel Group faced significant challenges when it was blacklisted for using cotton from Xinjiang. Decades-long clients disappeared overnight, leaving the company at a crossroads. “What else can we do?” Yang pondered. But instead of yielding to adversity, she embraced a philosophy of resilience. “When shot by a poisoned arrow, you go and get help,” she said, emphasizing the importance of seeking solutions in the face of obstacles.
Yang’s story is one of determination and innovation. Under her leadership, Esquel has turned challenges into opportunities, paving the way for a better future. Her journey inspires many in China and beyond, demonstrating how to thrive amidst uncertainty.
From a family history rooted in textiles to steering a global enterprise, Marjorie Yang continues to shape the industry with vision and perseverance. Her approach serves as a testament to the power of turning setbacks into stepping stones toward success.
