Brussels – September 27, 2024. EURATEX President Mario Jorge Machado congratulated European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on her re-election, while urging immediate action to support the EU textile industry.
Representing 200,000 companies, EURATEX emphasized the need for swift measures to maintain the sector’s competitiveness in the face of global competition. Machado stressed in the letter that delays could seriously jeopardize the future of the European textile industry.
EURATEX asked:
Immediate Regulatory Changes
EURATEX President called for the removal of the de minimis exemption under the Union Customs Code, which allows the sale of low-cost textile products from outside the EU, undermining local manufacturers. This, he stressed, would level the playing field.
Effective Regulation Enforcement
EURATEX praised von der Leyen’s focus on reducing regulatory burdens but urged stronger enforcement of existing rules. Companies investing in sustainable practices should be rewarded, while those failing to comply with environmental standards should face penalties.
Tackling High Energy Costs
Mario Machado highlighted high energy costs and market fragmentation as ongoing challenges for the industry. He urged the Commission to take concrete actions to address these issues.
Circular Economy and Sustainability
While supporting the proposed Circular Economy Act, Mario Machado stressed the need for market-driven measures to boost demand for sustainable textiles. He noted that consumers are concerned about sustainability but struggle to afford the higher costs of eco-friendly products.
Defense and Trade Relations
EURATEX emphasized the importance of textiles in defense sectors, urging changes in Green Public Procurement to reduce dependency on non-EU suppliers. Mario Machado also highlighted the need for stronger EU-US trade relations and a modernization of the EU-Turkey Customs Union.
