Initial engagement started with the two largest US buyers in the textile and apparel industry. The 10 leading Asian manufacturers were then approached, with the intent of building a vertically integrated value chain, including production of high-quality cotton (ginning, spinning and weaving), establishment of fabric mills and output of garments. The country also aims to attract a network of support industries and accessory manufacturers. Construction of this specialized industrial park—Hawassa Eco-lndustrial Park—was started in mid-2015 to host the leading firms, to be completed in nine months.