CEMATEX, the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers, has announced the launch of the first ITMA Sustainability Forum: Accelerating the Green Transition, to be held on 30 October 2025 at Singapore Expo. The forum debuts alongside ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025, and responds directly to global regulatory changes and the industry’s shift towards a circular economy.

Aimed at textile and garment manufacturers across South and Southeast Asia and the Middle East, the half-day event will focus on helping companies navigate the European Union’s evolving sustainability regulations and understand green financing options available to support sustainable transformation.

Alex Zucchi, President of CEMATEX, underlined the urgency for the industry to act: “Sustainability has become a global priority. The textile industry must modernise production to align with regulatory demands and growing consumer expectations. 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.”

A highlight of the forum will be a keynote presentation by Kristin Schreiber, Director at the European Commission DG GROW, who will share an overview of the EU’s sustainability roadmap and the new regulations that will shape the future of circular textile production.

“South and Southeast Asia are vital players in the global textile value chain,” Ms Schreiber said. “Many producers in these regions export to the European market, and their ability to align with upcoming requirements will be critical to a successful and inclusive transition. I look forward to exchanging perspectives on how we can collaborate globally to build a more sustainable and resilient textile industry.”

Under the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles, all textiles placed on the EU market by 2030 must be durable, recyclable, largely made from recycled fibres and free from hazardous substances — setting a clear and demanding target for manufacturers worldwide.

The forum programme will include panel sessions on how companies can respond to EU policy changes, moderated by Nicole van der Elst Desai of VDE Consultancy, and a session on green financing opportunities, moderated by Brandon Courban of Openspace Ventures. Speakers include Robert van de Kerkhof of ReHubs, Dr Rene Van Berkel of Switch Asia, Iris Ng of OCBC Bank, and Michael Rattinger of the Asian Development Bank.

Organised by ITMA Services, the forum’s programme partner is the Singapore Fashion Council. Registration is open exclusively to ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 exhibitors and visitors, with a delegate fee of S$35 including two networking coffee breaks.

www.cematex.com

www.itma.com

www.itmaasiasingapore.com