Euratex harps on regional cooperation for long-term growth

Hosted for the first time in Spain, the event was titled ‘2018 Euratex Convention on Regional Cooperation for Industrial Modernization in the European Textile and Clothing Sector’. It was an opportunity to exchange views and present approaches for regional collaboration, to encourage the development and modernisation of the fashion and textile industries.

“With over 170,000 textile and clothing companies in the EU, most of which have less than ten employees, it is fundamental to work together at local, regional and European level. This is a unique strength that allows our sector to tackle its three biggest challenges—namely skills, digitalisation and sustainability—and benefit from international market opportunities,” Euratex president Klaus Huneke said in his opening speech. “Euratex has indeed focused its efforts and priorities to successfully achieving these goals.”

Spanish member of European Parliament, Inmaculada Rodríguez-Piñero, praised the textile and clothing sector for “setting an example for all other industries”, as she called for even more collaboration initiatives at EU level.

The Convention also included a round table discussion with representatives from textile clusters around Europe. In showcasing the role of clusters in the sector, the testimonials offered a first-hand perspective into best practices, particularly the importance of providing high level services and products, maintaining a flexible approach, and focusing on innovation.

With textile and clothing companies all around Europe sharing common challenges and priorities, now more than ever “interregional collaboration is the key to the future”, stated CIE president and Euratex board member Càndid Penalba. (RKS)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India