#Associations

2024-08-22

The business situation remains dire, but expectations stay positive

ITMF’s Global Textile Industry Survey (GTIS) in July 2024 reveals that the global textile value chain remains in a very challenging business environment. Even though on average the business situation is dire which reflects a low order intake, business expectations in six months’ time stay positive. This very mixed picture shows that companies are expecting that this unprecedented long duration of a weak business cycle must come to an end eventually.

Results of the 27th ITMF Global Textile Industry Survey

Order intake has improved slightly in July (-20pp) compared to May (-24pp) and is certainly significantly better than the -50pp in November 2023. Nevertheless, the capacity utilization rate fell slightly from 71% to 68%, the lowest level reached already at the end of 2023. The outlook for both order intake and capacity utilization rate are not indicating a strong improvement.

Graph 1: Business situation [World] / Source: 8th-27th ITMF Global Textile Industry Survey (27th: 15-30.07.2024) © 2024 ITMF

Graph 2: Business expectations [World] / Source: 8th-27th ITMF Global Textile Industry Survey (27th: 15-30.07.2024) © 2024 ITMF

The major concern in the entire textile value chain was and is weak demand. 66% of participants expressed that they are seeing weak demand as a major concern. That geopolitics is now the second major concern (40%) shows that investors’ and consumers’ sentiments are suffering from wars and geopolitical tensions. High costs remain a challenge too, especially higher logistical costs (24%) due the problems related with the access to both the Suez and Panama Canals but also energy costs (22%) and raw material costs (27%).

Order cancellations are not a major issue as was the case in the immediate aftermath of the Corona-pandemic. Inventory levels are also average and do not pose a major concern for companies along the textile value chain. This was different with retailers and brands that struggled since the end of 2022 with unprecedented inventory levels. In the meantime, they have fallen to a level where it can be expected that they will place more orders again in the coming months.

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SIMTA joins ITMF as Corporate Member

In the past two decades SIMTA has established itself as producer of specialized machinery for the textile industry. In short period of time, SIMTA became an important supplier of precise rollers for top OEMs. Afterwards SIMTA started manufacturing overhead cleaners, bobbin transport systems, and other textile ancillaries. In the meantime, SIMTA is a leader in this space in collaboration with the German automation technology partner Jacobi.

ITMF and IAF conclude successful Joint Convention 2025 in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) and the International Apparel Federation (IAF) have successfully concluded their second joint convention, held this year in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. In close collaboration with the host Indonesian Textile Association (API), the event gathered over 400 delegates from around the world from across the entire textile and apparel value chain.

Engineering depth and diversity for composites

Airbond is the latest member of the British Textile Machinery Association (BTMA) to receive recognition for contributions to the composites industry. The engineering firm based in Pontypool, South Wales, has just received the Make UK Energy and Sustainability Award for its Lattice 3D Printing project.

FITA, ABIT and EURATEX underline strategic importance of Mercosur – EU Partnership Agreement for the textile and apparel industry

The Argentine Textile Industry Federation (FITA), the Brazilian Textile and Apparel Industry Association (ABIT), and the European Apparel and Textile Confederation (EURATEX) continue to monitor the process of internalizing the Mercosur-European Union Partnership Agreement. This agreement is essential for the competitiveness of our industries, on both sides of the Atlantic.

Huixing acquires insolvent Mayer & Cie.

Insolvency proceedings for the circular knitting and braiding machine manufacturer Mayer & Cie. were opened on December 1, 2025. Immediately following the opening of proceedings, the complete cessation of business operations was initiated. Most employees were subsequently given notice effective the end of February 2026. The production of the remaining orders in the circular knitting segment is expected to be completed by the end of the month. As early as December 2025, Mayer & Cie.’s braiding machine division was sold to an Italian investor.

Testing and research laboratory ensures safe and more sustainable products worldwide

For 80 years, Hohenstein has stood for independent testing, scientific expertise and practical solutions. Today, the testing and research service provider supports manufacturers and brands worldwide in making textiles, hardlines and medical devices safe, more sustainable and market-ready – thereby building trust among consumers. With an international presence and interdisciplinary expertise, Hohenstein supports its customers from production through to market launch, helping them navigate an environment of growing regulatory and societal demands.