The Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers Association (ACIMIT) held its General Assembly in Milan on July 9th, emphasizing the crucial role of innovation amidst current global uncertainties. ACIMIT President Marco Salvadè presented industry data, revealing a 16% decline in both production and exports during 2023. Production reached 2.3 billion euros, while exports totaled 2 billion euros.

Italian textile machinery producers maintain significant export volumes to China, Turkey, India, and the United States. While demand in these markets was subdued in 2023, the first quarter of this year showed promising signs, with renewed interest from China and a resurgence in orders from Egypt, Pakistan, Brazil, and Japan. Salvadè acknowledged that "2024 will likely remain a year of considerable uncertainty," primarily due to the volatile geopolitical landscape and fluctuations in consumer demand.

Italian textile machinery producers primarily export to China, Turkey, India, and the United States. While demand in these key markets weakened in 2023, the first quarter of 2024 showed encouraging signs, particularly in China. Orders also rebounded from Egypt, Pakistan, Brazil, and Japan. However, Salvadè cautioned that 2024 will likely remain uncertain due to geopolitical instability and fluctuating consumer demand.

The public portion of the ACIMIT General Assembly addressed the critical issue of textile recycling, emphasizing the significant opportunities presented by the European Green Deal for technology providers. The EU is driving the textile industry's green and circular transition through initiatives such as ecodesign, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), waste export regulations, and green claims legislation. Concurrently, the demand for recycled textile fibers is increasing due to brands' growing focus on sustainability, a trend that should not be underestimated.

Technology plays a pivotal role in the emerging circular economy for textiles, encompassing every stage from clothing sorting and selection to preparation and recycling. Recognizing this, several speakers at the event emphasized the crucial role of the Italian textile and machinery industries in driving this transformation. President Salvadè stated, "Textile machinery companies are committed to intensifying R&D efforts in this area, collaborating closely with their textile customers. We believe that the circular transition presents a significant opportunity for technology suppliers to enhance their competitiveness.

The Italian textile machinery industry, represented by approximately 300 companies, generates €2.3 billion in annual revenue, with a significant 86% exported globally. This success is attributed to the industry's focus on innovation, sustainability, reliability, and high-quality products, solidifying Italy's position as a global leader in textile machinery.