The pivotal role of regional cooperation for the long-term growth of the European textile and clothing sector

EURATEX brings together entrepreneurs and local authorities for its annual Convention in the heart of the Valencian textile cluster.

As highlighted by EURATEX President Klaus Huneke in his opening speech, “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, digitalization and sustainability - and benefit from international market opportunities”. 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”, as stated by CIE President and EURATEX Board Member Càndid Penalba.