ITMA to Host First Sustainability Forum in Singapore
In response to intensifying global sustainability regulations and the shift toward a circular economy, CEMATEX (European Committee of Textile Machinery Manufacturers) will launch the first-ever ITMA Sustainability Forum on 30 October 2025 at Singapore Expo.
Titled “Accelerating the Green Transition,” the half-day forum is tailored to support textile and garment manufacturers—especially from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East—in navigating the evolving EU sustainability regulations and exploring green financing to aid their transition.
To be held alongside ITMA ASIA + CITME Singapore 2025, the forum will convene EU policymakers, financial institutions, and industry leaders to foster dialogue and share insights on sustainable transformation.
Mr. Alex Zucchi, President of CEMATEX, stated:
“Sustainability has become a global priority. The textile industry must act swiftly to modernise production in line with regulatory demands and growing consumer expectations. This forum provides a much-needed platform for manufacturers to better understand the EU’s legislative landscape and the financing tools available for sustainable growth.”
A highlight of the forum will be a keynote address by Ms. Kristin Schreiber, Director, European Commission DG GROW, who will outline the EU’s sustainability roadmap and key policies driving the circular transition in textiles.
Ms. Schreiber commented:
“South and Southeast Asia are vital players in the global textile value chain. 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 sold in the EU must be durable, recyclable, and free from hazardous substances, with a strong share of recycled content. Manufacturers worldwide are urged to align with these benchmarks to stay competitive.
Forum Programme Highlights:
Shaping Sustainability: Responding to EU Policy Changes
- Moderator: Ms. Nicole van der Elst Desai, Founder, VDE Consultancy
- Speaker: Mr. Robert van de Kerkhof, CEO, ReHubs
Profit Meets Purpose: Financing Sustainability
- Moderator: Mr. Brandon Courban, Senior Advisor (Climate), Openspace Ventures
- Speakers:
- Dr. Rene Van Berkel, Senior Circular Economy Expert, Switch Asia
- Ms. Iris Ng, Head, Emerging Business & Global Commercial Banking, OCBC Bank
- Mr. Michael Rattinger, Senior Climate Change Specialist, Asian Development Bank
The Singapore Fashion Council is the official programme partner for this event, which is organised by ITMA Services.
Registration:
The forum is open exclusively to ITMA ASIA + CITME Singapore 2025 exhibitors and visitors. A delegate fee of S$35 includes two networking coffee breaks.
Register at: www.itmaasiasingapore.com