Conference heralds Central Asian country’s role as top player in international textiles

They will participate in the ITMF Annual Conference and the IAF World Fashion Convention from 8-10 September in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Under the theme “Innovation, Cooperation & Regulation – Drivers of the Textile & Apparel Industry”, key presentations will include insights from Euratex on the European Union’s sustainable textile strategy.

The role of technology in shaping the future of textiles will be a major talking point while there will be a special focus on Uzbekistan’s growing influence in the sector.

Once restricted by international sanctions on cotton exports,the land-locked country has now emerged as a leader in the global textile market. Having made rapid progress in modernizing its industry, the country is using this conference as an opportunity to reassert itself on the world stage and showcase its transformation.

The two-day event will begin with experts from the cotton and fibre industries discussing the latest opportunities and developments. Sessions will cover the current and future trends in the global textile industry, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of key shifts and innovations. A dedicated session will also explore the rising importance of man-made fibres and the opportunities they present.

The final part of the day will dissect the issues textile companies around the world are facing with audits and changing regulations. The sessions aim to help companies understand how they can efficiently structure processes inside their organizations to avoid “audit fatigue”.

Day two will shift focus to sustainability, regulatory changes, and the integration of modern technology in textiles. Steve Lamar, president of the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA), will offer perspectives on the U.S. regulatory environment. These discussions will delve into how Uzbekistan and other textile-producing countries can adapt to global regulations while promoting sustainable practices, positioning Uzbekistan as a central player in meeting international sustainability targets.

In addition to sustainability, sessions on digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) will highlight how these technologies are revolutionizing production processes and improving competitiveness. Topics such as digital labeling and the use of AI to address skills shortages in the textile workforce will offer practical insights into how Uzbekistan’s industry can leverage these tools for better efficiency and growth.

The conference will also serve as a platform for innovation, with an awards session recognizing startups that have made significant contributions to sustainable and scalable textile production. This session will underscore Uzbekistan’s openness to embracing cutting-edge technologies. Additionally, the event will feature ample networking opportunities, fostering international partnerships that can fuel further growth in Uzbekistan’s textile sector.

Attendees will also have the chance to participate in post-conference activities, such as tours of local textile factories and a cultural visit to Bukhara. These experiences will offer valuable insights into Uzbekistan’s rich textile heritage and its efforts to blend traditional practices with modern innovations.

As Uzbekistan prepares to host this landmark event, the country is ready to solidify its position as a key player in the global textile market.

An industry source told this website: “The conference will highlight Uzbekistan’s vision, commitment to sustainability, and readiness to embrace technological advancements. The discussions and collaborations formed in Samarkand are expected to leave a lasting impact on the global textile industry, positioning Uzbekistan as an emerging leader in the field.”

Share this article: