EURATEX Manifesto Outlines Vision for a Competitive Textiles Industry Ahead of European Parliament Elections

In preparation for the upcoming European Parliament elections scheduled from 6 to 9 June 2024, EURATEX, the European textile and apparel association, has unveiled a comprehensive Manifesto that articulates 15 key requests aimed at advancing a competitive European textiles and clothing industry. With the elections holding significant weight in shaping the new European Commission, EURATEX emphasizes the pivotal role played by the textile sector in contributing to European wealth, jobs, and growth.

Entrepreneurship as the Cornerstone

EURATEX underscores the crucial role of entrepreneurship in fostering a competitive industry. With 192,000 companies employing 1.3 million workers and a turnover of €167 billion, the association emphasizes the significance of high-quality, sustainable products achieved through innovation, creativity, and design. EURATEX calls for recognition from policymakers and urges an open dialogue to establish favorable conditions for operation in both internal and global markets.

A Smart EU Industrial Policy

Central to EURATEX's vision is the development and implementation of a "smart" EU industrial policy. The association advocates for policies that enhance competitiveness without burdening businesses with excessive administrative hurdles. EURATEX proposes a "competitiveness test" for new legislation, ensuring a critical examination of its impact. Additionally, the association urges investment in innovation, digitalization, and sustainable energy access at competitive prices.

Balancing Sustainability with Competitiveness

While committed to sustainability, EURATEX calls for economic realism in implementing the EU Strategy for Sustainable Textiles. Stressing the need for coherence, enforceability, and applicability for SMEs to prevent market exit, the association warns against fragmentation caused by varying national regulations, hindering growth prospects for European textiles.

Ensuring Free and Fair Trade

As the second-largest global exporter of textiles and clothes, Europe, with $224 billion in merchandise sales, aims to secure open, free, and fair global markets. EURATEX emphasizes the importance of trade agreements offering effective market access and a level playing field for EU companies. The association calls for coordinated efforts with member states to enforce trade laws, ensuring protection against free riders.

Incentivizing Demand for Sustainable Textiles

Recognizing the challenges posed by premium prices for sustainable products, EURATEX proposes standard requirements and fiscal incentives to drive demand. The association advocates for green public procurements by public authorities, integrating sustainability criteria into evaluation grids.

Alberto Paccanelli, EURATEX President, underscores the urgency, stating, "These elections are a turning point for the future of Europe and its industrial base." The Manifesto serves as a blueprint for aligning European industrial practices with global standards, fostering a greener, wealthier future through collaborative efforts. As Europe stands at a crucial crossroads, EURATEX's Manifesto aims to guide policymakers toward decisions that will shape the textile industry's future and contribute to a more competitive, sustainable European economy.