In response to mounting global regulations and the push for a circular economy, CEMATEX – the European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers – is launching the ITMA Sustainability Forum: Accelerating the Green Transition on October 30th at Singapore Expo. 

The half-day forum is designed to help textile and garment manufacturers, particularly from South and Southeast Asia and the Middle East, navigate the European Union’s evolving sustainability regulations and access to green financing opportunities to support their transition.

Held alongside ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025, the forum brings together EU policymakers, financial institutions, and industry leaders to facilitate cross-border dialogue and knowledge exchange.

“Sustainability has become a global priority,” says CEMATEX president Alex Zucchi. “The textile industry must act swiftly to modernise production in line with regulatory demands and growing consumer expectations. This forum will provide a much-needed platform for manufacturers to better understand the EU’s legislative landscape and the financing tools available for sustainable growth.”

A key highlight of the forum will be the keynote presentation by Kristin Schreiber, director of the European Commission’s DG GROW. She will provide a comprehensive overview of the EU’s sustainability roadmap and upcoming regulations driving the shift towards circular textile production.

 “South and Southeast Asia are vital players in the global textile value chain,” she observes. “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 at this forum on how we can collaborate globally to build a more sustainable and resilient textile industry.”

Under the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles, by 2030, all textiles placed on the EU market must be durable, recyclable, largely made from recycled fibres and free from hazardous substances. Manufacturers worldwide must act now to meet these requirements and remain competitive.

Other speakers taking part include Robert van de Kerkhof of  ReHubs, Brandon Courban, of Openspace Ventures, Rene Van Berkel of Switch Asia, Iris Ng, of OCBC Bank and Michael Rattinger of the Asian Development Bank.

The Singapore Fashion Council, the official association for the textile and fashion industry in Singapore, is the programme partner of the forum organised by ITMA Services.

It is open only to ITMA ASIA + CITME, Singapore 2025 exhibitors and visitors. To register, please visit:

www.itmaasiasingapore.com