In response to increasing global regulations and the drive toward a circular textile economy, the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers (CEMATEX) has announced the launch of the first-ever ITMA Sustainability Forum, themed “Accelerating the Green Transition.”
The half-day forum, to be held on October 30th at the Singapore Expo, coincides with ITMA ASIA + CITME Singapore 2025 and aims to guide textile and garment manufacturers—particularly from South and Southeast Asia and the Middle East—through the European Union’s evolving sustainability roadmap and related green financing opportunities.
Bridging Regulation and Innovation
The event will gather EU policymakers, financial institutions, and industry leaders to foster cross-border dialogue on sustainability and innovation in the textile value chain.
“Sustainability has become a global priority and the textile industry must act swiftly to modernise production in line with regulatory demands and growing consumer expectations,” said Alex Zucchi, President of CEMATEX.“This forum provides a much-needed platform for manufacturers to better understand the EU’s legislative landscape and the financing tools available for sustainable growth.”
Keynote by European Commission’s Kristin Schreiber
A major highlight of the forum will be a keynote address by Kristin Schreiber, Director at the European Commission’s DG GROW, who will outline the EU’s sustainability roadmap and upcoming circular economy regulations impacting global textile trade.
“South and Southeast Asia are vital players in the global textile value chain and many producers in these regions export to the European market,” said Schreiber. “Their ability to align with upcoming requirements will be critical to a successful and inclusive transition.”
Under the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles, by 2030, all textiles sold in the EU must be durable, recyclable, and largely made from recycled fibres, as well as free from hazardous substances—a transformation that demands immediate action from global manufacturers.
Registration and Participation
The ITMA Sustainability Forum is open exclusively to exhibitors and visitors of ITMA ASIA + CITME Singapore 2025. Participants can register via the official website:
This landmark forum underscores ITMA’s commitment to accelerating the textile industry’s transition toward sustainability—uniting policy, technology, and finance to build a greener, more resilient future for global manufacturing.
