Mario Jorge Machado, the newly elected President of Euratex, the European textile and clothing industry confederation, recently shared his vision for the industry’s future in a conversation with FashionNetwork.com during the Première Vision Paris trade show. In light of the challenging economic climate and ongoing concerns about sustainability, Machado emphasized the importance of transitioning towards a circular economy and investing in renewable energies to decarbonize the industry.
According to Machado, consumer demand for sustainable products is driving European textile companies to prioritize environmental and social responsibility. He highlighted the need for greater transparency in the industry, as well as efforts to simplify the complex regulatory frameworks that currently govern textile production in Europe. Machado stressed the importance of educating consumers about the environmental and social impact of their purchasing decisions, advocating for initiatives like the digital product passport and the environmental product footprint to provide consumers with access to essential information.
In addition to addressing regulatory challenges, Machado spoke about the need for fair competition in the global market, particularly in the face of fast-fashion brands like Shein and Temu. He emphasized the importance of upholding environmental and social standards in production processes and called for greater cooperation between European countries to ensure a level playing field for all industry players.
Drawing on Portugal’s success in the textile sector, Machado highlighted the country’s investments in innovation and renewable energy as key drivers of growth. He underscored the value of producing locally in Europe, citing the region’s rich history, culture, and creative expertise as unique selling points for European fashion brands. Machado also touched on the importance of investing in workforce training to support innovation in recycling technologies and meet upcoming regulatory requirements for end-of-life textile product collection.
Looking ahead, Machado expressed optimism about the role of artificial intelligence in driving Industry 4.0 innovation in the textile sector. He emphasized the potential of AI to optimize production processes, forecast consumer trends, and reduce unsold inventory. Machado highlighted the need for a collaborative approach to adopting AI technologies, ensuring that textile workers are equipped with the necessary skills to leverage these advancements effectively.
In conclusion, Machado’s vision for the European textile and clothing industry centers on sustainability, innovation, and transparency. By embracing a circular economy model, investing in renewable energy, and leveraging technologies like AI, Machado believes that European textile companies can position themselves as leaders in the global fashion market while upholding the values of environmental and social responsibility.