As the global textile sector braces for sweeping regulatory shifts under the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles, CEMATEX announces the highly anticipated ITMA Sustainability Forum, set to take place on 30 October 2025 alongside ITMA ASIA + CITME in Singapore.
Titled “Accelerating the Green Transition,” the forum aims to provide textile manufacturers—particularly those from South and Southeast Asia and the Middle East—with critical insight into upcoming EU policies and sustainable financing avenues. In line with the EU’s 2030 goals, textiles entering the European market must be durable, recyclable, made primarily from recycled fibres, and free from hazardous substances. This landmark forum will decode how these regulations will reshape production, consumption, and the entire textile value chain.
“The textile industry has a critical role to play to protect the planet,” says Mr. Alex Zucchi, President of CEMATEX. “As Europe takes a lead to regulate the industry, all stakeholders have to ensure that we are ready to journey towards a circular economy. The forum will facilitate engaging discussions and exchange of ideas as the industry urgently accelerates its transition to a greener future.”
Forum Highlights:
Date: 30 October 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Venue: Singapore Expo
Fee: USD 35 (includes two tea breaks and GST)
Participants must hold a valid ITMA ASIA + CITME Singapore 2025 badge.
The half-day programme includes a keynote presentation and two expert-led panels that explore the intersection of policy, innovation, and green finance.
🔹 Keynote Presentation
Ms. Kristin Schreiber, Director, DG GROW, European Commission
🔹 Session 1: Shaping Sustainability – Responding to EU Policy Changes
Moderator: Ms. Nicole van der Elst Desai, Founder, VDE Consultancy
Speaker: Mr. Robert van de Kerkhof, CEO, ReHubs
🔹 Session 2: Profit Meets Purpose – Financing Sustainability
Moderator: Mr. Brandon Courban, Senior Advisor (Climate), Openspace Ventures
Speakers:
- Dr. Rene Van Berkel, Senior Circular Economy Expert, Switch Asia, EU Policy Support Component
- Ms. Iris Ng, Head of Emerging Business & Global Commercial Banking, OCBC Bank
- Mr. Michael Rattinger, Senior Climate Change Specialist, Asian Development Bank
This forum serves as a strategic launchpad for businesses aiming to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape. With Europe setting the pace for sustainability compliance, companies that align early will gain critical market advantages and access to green financing.
Visual Identity:
The forum’s branding reflects its mission—pairing visuals of lush nature, recycled fabrics, and a digital Earth with a sleek, modern design, symbolizing the convergence of innovation and environmental responsibility.
CEMATEX remains committed to fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration across borders, enabling textile players to adapt and thrive in the era of circular economy and sustainable production.
