#Associations

2025-10-29

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.

The conference program was met with great enthusiasm and featured a diverse range of high-level discussions on topics shaping the future of the global industry - including technology adoption, evolving legislation, fibre innovation, audit fatigue reduction, decarbonisation, AI applications, and the transformation of the Indonesian textile and apparel sector. The event also showcased innovation, sustainability, and collaboration through inspiring presentations by the winners of the ITMF Awards.

Beyond the conference sessions, ITMF and IAF continued their tradition of hosting memorable and culturally rich social events. Delegates were welcomed by the Sultan of Yogyakarta at a distinguished opening dinner, while the Gala Dinner held in front of the iconic Prambanan Temple provided a spectacular setting for networking and celebration. This special evening also marked the beginning of the tenures of ITMF President Juan Parés and IAF President Stefano Festa Marzotto.

The convention program also included company visits showcasing Indonesia’s dynamic textile and apparel ecosystem. Delegates visited PT Dan Liris, PT Pan Brothers, PT Ambassador Garmindo, Gallery Batik Jawa, PT Golden Tekstil Indonesia (GTI), and PT Ungaran Sari Garment, gaining firsthand insights into the country’s manufacturing excellence, innovation capacity, and commitment to sustainability.

The success of the 2025 convention was made possible through the strong support of the Indonesian Textile Association (API) as well as PT Dan Liris and PT Pan Brothers, both ITMF and IAF member companies. Together, they showcased Indonesia’s vibrant and forward-looking textile and apparel industry - projecting a positive and ambitious image of the country as a premier location for both textile and garment production.

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.

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.

Advancing the future of stretch: Fashion for Good launches new project to validate bio-based and recycled elastane

Launched today, Stretching Circularity is a collaborative project initiated by Fashion for Good dedicated to accelerating the adoption of lower-impact elastane alternatives that are compatible with circular textile systems. By validating bio-based and recycled elastane solutions through pilot-scale testing and demonstrator garments, the initiative aims to remove one of the most significant technical barriers to a circular textile economy.

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.