CEMATEX, the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers, has enhanced its representation and engagement with EU institutions and stakeholders, reinforcing its role as the collective voice of the European textile machinery industry.

According to CEMATEX President Alex Zucchi, the organisation is now officially registered in the EU Transparency Register. “With this registration, the association is in a leading position to represent the European textile machinery industry in dialogue with EU legislators and to actively contribute to consultations on upcoming legislative initiatives,” he said.

As part of its growing involvement, CEMATEX has participated in the EU Sustainable Textiles Transition Pathway, pledging its support for a more sustainable European textile ecosystem. It has also joined the EU Textiles Ecosystem platform, strengthening its visibility and collaboration within the European textile community.

The organisation is actively monitoring key EU legislative developments, including the Eco-Design Regulation (Textile Delegated Act), Waste Framework Directive implementation, Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules for apparel, and reforms in market surveillance and customs.

CEMATEX’s advocacy extends to global trade issues, with particular focus on the Indian Omnibus Technical Regulation and EU market surveillance. The Indian regulation proposes compulsory certification for weaving and embroidery machines, and CEMATEX has submitted a position paper to the Indian Ministry of Heavy Industries calling for its postponement.

Within Europe, the organisation has coordinated with other EU industry bodies -CECIMO, Orgalim, and CECE - to urge the European Commission to oppose compulsory certification for CE-marked machinery. It has also requested that the Commission classify the Indian measure as a Technical Barrier to Trade at the World Trade Organization and continues to press for tariff-free access for EU textile machinery exports to India.

On market surveillance, CEMATEX is advocating stronger enforcement against non-compliant imports. It has circulated a position paper to all 27 EU Member State Market Surveillance Authorities and is preparing supporting materials for inspectors. A new Machine Safety Committee, comprising experts from member companies, will collect evidence of non-compliance and raise awareness of associated risks among industry stakeholders.

“By engaging in EU decision-making and defending industry interests in global trade, CEMATEX is committed to ensuring a competitive, sustainable, and innovative future for the European textile machinery industry,” said Zucchi.

www.cematex.com